Non-adherence in Type-1 Diabetic Adolescents
Academic Level at Time of Presentation
Senior
Major
Biology
Minor
Chemistry
List all Project Mentors & Advisor(s)
Dr. Dena Weinberger
Presentation Format
Event
Abstract/Description
Type 1 diabetes is a chronic illness that affects 1.25 million people in the United States. Type-1 diabetes occurs when the body produces little to no insulin because of the destruction of pancreatic cells. Treatment of diabetes includes daily insulin injections and finger-stick blood glucose readings, as well as conscientious diet and exercise regimens. Non-adherence to prescribed treatment plans can be dangerous and result in hospitalization or, in extreme cases, death. Yet, non-adherence is prevalent throughout all age ranges of type-1 diabetics. However, adolescents with type-1 diabetes are presented with unique adherence challenges because of brain development, hormone levels, and changing social landscapes. Factors affecting adherence, friend and family support, gender, age, perception of the disease, were examined and synthesized with adolescent psychology to obtain a fuller picture and draw conclusions about why type-1 diabetics may not comply with their prescribed treatment plans. This knowledge can be used to help physicians understand the issues facing adolescents and make informed adjustments to treatment plans to maintain optimal health in their patients.
Fall Scholars Week 2019 Event
Honors College Senior Theses
Non-adherence in Type-1 Diabetic Adolescents
Type 1 diabetes is a chronic illness that affects 1.25 million people in the United States. Type-1 diabetes occurs when the body produces little to no insulin because of the destruction of pancreatic cells. Treatment of diabetes includes daily insulin injections and finger-stick blood glucose readings, as well as conscientious diet and exercise regimens. Non-adherence to prescribed treatment plans can be dangerous and result in hospitalization or, in extreme cases, death. Yet, non-adherence is prevalent throughout all age ranges of type-1 diabetics. However, adolescents with type-1 diabetes are presented with unique adherence challenges because of brain development, hormone levels, and changing social landscapes. Factors affecting adherence, friend and family support, gender, age, perception of the disease, were examined and synthesized with adolescent psychology to obtain a fuller picture and draw conclusions about why type-1 diabetics may not comply with their prescribed treatment plans. This knowledge can be used to help physicians understand the issues facing adolescents and make informed adjustments to treatment plans to maintain optimal health in their patients.