Learning how to effectively manage type 1 diabetes can take time. It takes practice and trial-and-error to understand how each person’s body responds to different foods, activities, and insulin doses. A recent study found that children with type 1 diabetes may be able to control blood sugar levels more effectively and reduce risk of complications by using insulin pumps as opposed to manually injecting insulin.

The study was conducted by the University of Metabolic Research Laboratories and analyzed data for 14,460 patients with insulin pumps and 16,460 who injected insulin. All participants had been diagnosed with type 1 diabetes for at least one year and were younger than 20 years old. The results for children and adolescents using pumps outperformed those who did not.

According the findings, only 9.55 children per 100 experienced severe hypoglycemia each year when using insulin pumps compared to 14 children per 100 for those who relied on injections. Along the same lines, 3.64 children per 100 were treated each year for diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) while on an insulin pump compared to 4.26 children per 100 for those treated with injections. Furthermore, HbA1c levels and daily insulin doses were slightly lower for those with insulin pumps as well.

The results highlight the importance of considering insulin pumps for children living with type 1 diabetes and ensuring that they are educated on their condition and how to properly use the pump for blood sugar control. However, this is only one option available and may not be the best choice for all children. Dr. Simon Heller from the University of Sheffield was not involved in the study but notes, “For adolescents, particularly those who find it difficult to do all the complicated things in managing diabetes, pumps may not be the best option, particularly if insulin is missed.” Parents, children, and medical provider should work together to determine the best option for each individual.

The Diabetes Research Connection supports early career scientists in novel studies regarding type 1 diabetes in an effort to develop more effective treatment options, potential cures, and options for improving quality of life. Click to learn more about current projects and provide support.