Physical activity and hybrid closed loop technology in adults with type 1 diabetes mellitus - what are the challenges experienced by the users and how are these met? A qualitative interview study.

OBJECTIVE

Type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) requires lifelong insulin treatment based on blood glucose (BG) values affected by many factors, making the treatment complex. Automated insulin delivery through hybrid closed loop (HCL) technology has now shown to be an effective and safe treatment option. However, these systems still perform sub-optimally during physical activity (PA). This study aimed to analyze challenges experienced during PA by people with T1DM using HCL technology and how they addressed these challenges.

METHODS

We conducted a qualitative interview study based on semi-structured individual interviews with five participants. All participants used the Medtronic 780G insulin pump. Systematic text condensation was used as analysis method.

RESULTS

The main findings of the study are summarized in five major themes: (1) Challenges in Optimisation of Pre-Conditions for Exercise, (2) Limitations of user equipment, (3) Challenges in maintaining glycemic control during PA, (4) Challenging consequences after PA and (5) Need for manual override.

CONCLUSION

Achieving good BG control during PA is challenging despite good prerequisites and use of HCL technology. There is a need for improvements in attaching the pump and sensor, more accessible ways to monitor sensor glucose values, and increased education. Specifically, more opportunities for regulating insulin delivery during PA, and better guidance that focuses on how to avoid both hypo- and hyperglycemia in relation to PA when using HCL technology.