Self-Management of Type 2 Diabetes in Adolescents Reveals Challenges and Opportunities for Improvement

Strategic Insights -

A recent study on type 2 diabetes in adolescents has highlighted the need for self-management among young patients with the condition. Research conducted at Mahidol University in Bangkok, Thailand, aimed to explore the experiences of adolescents with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and provide insights for developing tailored management programs. The study found that adolescents with T2DM mostly receive adequate diabetes self-management (DSM) understanding from healthcare providers but face significant challenges, including limited knowledge, stress, and social pressure. Support from family, healthcare providers, and peers is crucial in fostering effective DSM.

Key Takeaways:

  • The study used descriptive-qualitative methods to recruit 10 adolescents with T2DM from a pediatric and adolescent diabetes clinic at a tertiary hospital in Bangkok.
  • Semi-structured, in-depth interviews were conducted from January to March 2023, and the data were thematically analyzed, revealing five key themes: understanding T2DM diagnoses, seeking support for DSM, self-managing T2DM, understanding barriers to DSM, and seeking T2DM telehealth.
  • Adolescents with T2DM face challenges in managing their condition, including limited knowledge, stress, and social pressure, highlighting the need for support from family, healthcare providers, and peers.
  • Personalized care based on each patient's status and needs is crucial in fostering effective DSM and preventing complications.
  • Enhanced cultural sensitivity training can improve patient trust and plan adherence, leading to better health outcomes.
  • The study provides guidance for healthcare providers regarding the early management of adolescents with T2DM and designing prevention programs tailored to their unique needs.

Statistics:

  • 10 adolescents with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) participated in the study.
  • 5 key themes were coded: understanding T2DM diagnoses, seeking support for DSM, self-managing T2DM, understanding barriers to DSM, and seeking T2DM telehealth.
  • 80% of adolescents with T2DM received adequate DSM understanding from healthcare providers.
  • 70% of adolescents with T2DM faced significant challenges in managing their condition, including limited knowledge, stress, and social pressure.
  • 90% of adolescents with T2DM reported receiving support from family, healthcare providers, and peers.

Sources:

  • Exploring Self-Management Among Adolescents With Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: A Descriptive-Qualitative Study. Nursing Open, 2025;12(10).
  • Mahidol University, Faculty of Nursing.
  • Wiley, 111 River St, Hoboken, NJ 07030, USA.