Worldwide differences in childhood type 1 diabetes: The SWEET experience

Abstract

Objective: To study worldwide differences in childhood diabetes, comparing relevant indicators among five regions within the SWEET initiative.

Subjects: We investigated 26 726 individuals with type 1 diabetes (T1D) from 54 centers in the European region; 7768 individuals from 30 centers in the Asia/Middle East/Africa region; 2642 people from five centers in Australia/New Zealand; 10 839 individuals from seven centers in North America, and 1114 patients from five centers in South America.

Methods: The SWEET database was analyzed based on the following inclusion criteria: T1D, time period 2015-2019, and age < 21 years, with analysis of the most recent documented year of therapy. For the statistical analysis, we used multivariable linear and logistic regression models to adjust for age (<6 years, 6- < 12 years, 12- < 18 years, 18- < 21 years), gender, and duration of diabetes (<2 years, 2- < 5 years, 5- < 10 years, ≥10 years).

Results: Adjusted HbA1c means ranged from 7.8% (95%-confidence interval: 7.6-8.1) in Europe to 9.5% (9.2-9.8) in Asia/Middle East/Africa. Mean daily insulin dose ranged from 0.8 units/kg in Europe (0.7-0.8) and Australia/New Zealand (0.6-0.9) to 1.0 unit/kg 0.9-1.1) in Asia/Middle East/Africa. Percentage of pump use was highest in North America (80.7% [79.8-81.6]) and lowest in South America (4.2% [3.2-5.6]). Significant differences between the five regions were also observed with regards to body mass index SD scores, frequency of blood glucose monitoring and presence of severe hypoglycaemia.

Conclusions: We found significant heterogeneity in diabetes care and outcomes across the five regions. The aim of optimal care for each child remains a challenge.

Keywords: SWEET registry; children and adolescents; diabetes care; type 1 diabetes; worldwide differences.