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Incidence and severity of hypoglycemia
Author(s) -
Sutton Leslie,
ChapmanNovakofski Karen
Publication year - 2008
Publication title -
the faseb journal
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.709
H-Index - 277
eISSN - 1530-6860
pISSN - 0892-6638
DOI - 10.1096/fasebj.22.1_supplement.681.4
Subject(s) - hypoglycemia , medicine , diabetes mellitus , incidence (geometry) , insulin , health education , pediatrics , emergency medicine , nursing , endocrinology , public health , physics , optics
Hypoglycemia or fear of hypoglycemia may inhibit achievement of optimal blood glucose goals. A needs assessment was conducted to determine if education pertaining to hypoglycemia treatment/prevention was indicated. Twelve questions pertained to experience with low blood glucose; 5 determined the participant's locus of control [LOC]; and 10 identified the participant's stages of change. The survey was evaluated by an “expert panel” of four and then administered to participants of the Illinois Extension's Dining with Diabetes program [n=64]. Most had been diagnosed with diabetes by a physician [n=47], with the remaining taking care of someone with diabetes [n=17]. Most take oral agents [n=42]; few insulin [n=6]. Thirty‐five have had hypoglycemia, with 23 having values < 70 mg/dl. Most have been advised by their doctor (n=50) about hypoglycemia, but many still experience episodes (16 have episodes a few times/year; 13 have episodes several to many times/year). Almost all (92%) have an internal LOC regarding their health, but only about half (55%) do so regarding sickness prevention, indicating an interpretation difference between control over health and over sickness. Preliminary data support the need for additional education concerning the prevention and treatment of hypoglycemia. This research is supported by Illinois AMVETS Diabetes Education Research Program and Illinois Extension.