Insulin pumps are widely used in the management of type 1 diabetes (T1D) and reviews have shown insulin pump therapy to be associated with improved glycemic control, fewer severe hypoglycemia events, and improved quality of life. Yet, non-Hispanic white children are more than twice as likely as non-Hispanic Black children to use this technology.
In an article in the Journal of Pediatric Nursing, researchers outline their study findings which have determined that this gap has persisted for 15 years. They consider that this inequity among children with T1D may not be simply attributable to socioeconomic status. They also believe it plays a role in the racial disparities in clinical outcomes seen in type 1 diabetes as NHB children have worse glycemic control and higher rates of complications of the disease.
“This study demonstrates a remarkable lack of progress in addressing racial and ethnic disparities in the area of T1D over the past decade. The extent of these disparities must be fully investigated through research with parents of children with diabetes, and with providers, to determine the contributing factors—including the impact of implicit bias and structural racism,” writes Terri H. Lipman, the Miriam Stirl Endowed Term Professor of Nutrition, professor of nursing of children, and assistant dean for Community Engagement at the School of Nursing.
Read more at Penn Nursing News.
