Tolerability and acceptability of real-time continuous glucose monitoring and its impact on diabetes management behaviours in individuals with Type 2 Diabetes – A pilot study

Abstract Introduction Emerging evidence suggests us of real-time continuous glucose monitoring systems (RT-CGM), can assist to improve glucose control in Type 2 Diabetes (T2D) treatment, however the impact of these devices on patients’ stress levels and behaviour is poorly understood. This study aimed to examine the effects of RT-CGM on tolerance and acceptability of device wear, stress and diabetes management and motivation to change. Methods Twenty adults (10 men, 10 women) with T2D (aged 60.6 ± 8.4 years, BMI 34.2 ± 4.7 kg/m2), were randomised to a low-carbohydrate lifestyle plan whilst wearing a RT-CGM or an ‘offline-blinded’ (Blinded-CGM) monitoring system continuously for 12 weeks. Outcomes were glycaemic control (HbA1c), weight (kg) perceived stress scale (PSS), CGM device intolerance, acceptability, motivation to change and diabetes management behaviour questionnaires. Results Both groups experienced significant reductions in body weight (RT-CGM −7.4 ± 4.5 kg vs. Blinded-CGM −5.5 ± 4.0 kg) and HbA1c (−0.67 ± 0.82% vs. −0.68 ± 0.74%). There were no differences between groups for perceived stress (P = 0.47) or device intolerance at week 6 or 12 (both P > 0.30). However, there was evidence of greater acceptance of CGM in the RT-CGM group at week 12 (P = 0.03), improved blood glucose monitoring behaviour in the RT-CGM group at week 6 and week 12 (P ≤ 0.01), and a significant time x group interaction (P = 0.03) demonstrating improved diabetes self-management behaviours in RT-CGM. Conclusion This study provides preliminary evidence of improved behaviours that accompany RT-CGM in the context of diabetes management and glucose self-monitoring. RT-CGM may provide an alternative approach to glucose management in individuals with T2D without resulting in increased disease distress.