4105.0 - Telehealth in Pediatric and Young Adult Diabetes Management: A Scoping Review and Meta-analysis of Clinical Outcomes and Quality of Life Across T1DM and T2DM Populations

Program: APHA Student Assembly

Session: Maternal/Child Health

Presenter: Shivesh Shourya

Author: Monica Gomes

Abstract

Background

Managing diabetes (type 1 and type 2) in pediatric and young adult populations (ages 2–25 years) presents challenges related to developmental changes and healthcare access barriers. Telehealth and mobile health (mHealth) technologies have emerged as potential solutions, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. However, the scope, effectiveness, and characteristics of telehealth interventions for diabetes management remain unclear.

Methods

This scoping review followed the PRISMA-ScR framework to map the literature on telehealth interventions for diabetes management in young populations. A comprehensive search of PubMed and Scopus identified studies published from 2014 - 2024. Eligible studies assessed telehealth interventions. Data extraction focused on intervention type, duration, telehealth modality, and reported outcomes, including glycemic control (HbA1c) and quality of life (QoL).

Results

Nine studies (N = 668) were included, primarily addressing type 1 diabetes, with a notable gap in type 2 diabetes research. Telehealth interventions included virtual consultations (n = 4), remote glucose monitoring (n = 3), and web-based education programs (n = 2). While overall HbA1c reductions were inconsistent, short-term interventions (<3 months) showed greater reductions (–0.46, CI: -0.85, -0.07). Communication-based interventions significantly improved HbA1c, while web-based education programs enhanced QoL (15.78, CI: 7.39, 24.17). Studies pre-pandemic showed greater effectiveness than those during the pandemic.

Conclusions

Telehealth shows potential for short-term glycemic control and QoL improvements, particularly through communication-based and web-based education interventions. However, high heterogeneity, limited long-term evidence, and a lack of type 2 diabetes studies highlight the need for further research into telehealth’s sustained impact for pediatric and young adult populations.