The proper role of the GW2B in the management of Type 1 diabetes in children has not been determined. As a prelude to a large-scale randomized clinical trial (RCT) to compare the effect on glycemic control, hypoglycemia, and quality of life of using a GW2B versus standard care, the DirecNet Study Group conducted a pilot study to assess the feasibility of the protocol planned for the RCT and to collect data on changes in HbA1c, frequency of hypoglycemia, frequency of skin reactions, and quality of life after using the GW2B for three months.
Fifteen children and adolescents with Type 1 diabetes participated in this study. Each patient was provided with a personal computer for weekly downloading of the GW2B and for completion of questionnaires regarding hypoglycemia and GW2B use. Participants received study telephone calls after 1, 2, and 4 weeks and every 4 weeks thereafter to review their diabetes management. Participants had a follow-up visit at Week 29. The Continuous Glucose Monitoring System was inserted at this visit to assess hypoglycemia over three days. A follow-up visit was performed at Week 30 to measure HbA1c and administer psychosocial questionnaires.
