Diabetes Distress and Advanced Diabetes Technology Use in Adults with Type 1 Diabetes

Natasa Grulović; Velimir Altabas; Maja Baretić

doi:10.3390/endocrines7020014

journal article Open Access Apr 08, 2026

Diabetes Distress and Advanced Diabetes Technology Use in Adults with Type 1 Diabetes

Natasa Grulović

Velimir Altabas

Maja Baretić

Endocrines Vol. 7 No. 2 pp. 14 · MDPI AG

View at Publisher Save 10.3390/endocrines7020014

Abstract

Background: Although technology has improved the quality of diabetes management, it may also introduce subjective burdens and reveal barriers to its use. The primary aim of this research was to investigate the association between the use of advanced diabetes technology, such as continuous glucose monitoring, insulin pumps, mobile applications, and diabetes distress in adults with type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM). Methods: This multicenter, cross-sectional study conducted across Southeastern European countries included 499 adults with T1DM. All participants signed informed consent and completed the 20-item Problem Areas in Diabetes (PAID) Questionnaire. A total score of 40 or above was classified as high diabetes distress. Statistical analyses were performed using ANOVA, χ2 test, and logistic regression. Results: The mean age of participants was 49.11 ± 13.99 years, with a mean HbA1c value of 7.9 ± 1.46%. The mean PAID total score was 29.19 ± 19.51. High levels of diabetes distress were found in 28.86% of the participants. About 20% of participants used advanced diabetes technologies. Significant predictors of diabetes distress were gender, BMI, and HbA1c. After accounting for these predictors, advanced technology use was associated with a 42% lower likelihood of experiencing high levels of diabetes distress compared to those who used blood glucose meters. Conclusions: Diabetes distress remains a frequent issue among individuals with T1DM. However, patients using advanced diabetes technologies exhibited less distress. Our findings highlight the importance of a comprehensive approach to T1DM management that integrates technological advancements and psychosocial support.

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Details

Published: Apr 08, 2026
Vol/Issue: 7(2)
Pages: 14
License: View

Authors

N

Natasa Grulović

Sanofi, 75017 Paris, France

V

Velimir Altabas

School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia; “Mladen Sekso” Department for Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolic Diseases, Sestre Milosrdnice UHC, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia

M

Maja Baretić

School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia; Department of Endocrinology and Diabetes, Internal Clinic, University Hospital Centre Zagreb, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia

Cite This Article

Natasa Grulović, Velimir Altabas, Maja Baretić (2026). Diabetes Distress and Advanced Diabetes Technology Use in Adults with Type 1 Diabetes. Endocrines, 7(2), 14. https://doi.org/10.3390/endocrines7020014

Diabetes Distress and Advanced Diabetes Technology Use in Adults with Type 1 Diabetes

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