Effects of individual, health system and neighborhood risks on diabetes health outcomes among emerging adults with type 1 diabetes

Abstract

Aims: To test associations between individual, health system and neighborhood-level risk and protective factors, and health outcomes in a diverse sample of emerging adults (EAs) with type 1 diabetes (T1D).

Methods: Data were drawn from the baseline data collection of a clinical trial. One hundred and thirteen EAs [47.8 % White/non-Hispanic; mean age = 20.9 years; mean HbA1c = 9.5 % (IFCC = 81 mmol/mol)] completed self-report questionnaires on diabetes-self efficacy, diabetes distress, communication with diabetes health care provider, neighborhood crime and diabetes management. Structural equation modelling estimated the direct and indirect effects of individual, health care provider, and neighborhood factors on diabetes management and glycemic control.

Results: In the final model, self-efficacy for diabetes care was the only significant predictor of diabetes management (β = 0.32, p < 0.001). Neighborhood crime (β = 0.17, p < 0.05) and diabetes management (β = -0.28, p < 0.05) had significant direct effects on glycemic control, while diabetes self-efficacy had a significant indirect effect though diabetes management (β = -0.090; p < 0.01).

Conclusions: Individual factors such as higher self-efficacy for diabetes management and neighborhood factors such as lower crime rates have protective effects on the diabetes health of EAs with T1D.

Keywords: Diabetes management; Emerging adults; Neighborhood influences; Type 1 diabetes.