Perspectives on Long-Distance Air Travel with Type 1 Diabetes

Abstract

We sought to determine the real-life experiences of individuals traveling long distance (across five or more time-zones) with type 1 diabetes (T1D). Five hundred three members of the T1D Exchange online community ( www.myglu.org ) completed a 45-question survey about their travel experiences flying long distance. The cohort was stratified by duration of T1D and whether or not participants used continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion (CSII) therapy and/or a continuous glucose monitor (CGM). In the last 5 years, 71% of participants had flown long distance. When asked about their perceived "fear of flying," CSII users (with and without a CGM) reported their primary anxiety was "losing supplies," while non-CSII users described concerns over "unstable blood glucose (highs and lows)" (P < 0.05). In addition, 74% of participants reported more hypoglycemia and/or hyperglycemia while traveling overseas and 9% had avoided international travel altogether because of problems related to diabetes management. Furthermore, 22% of participants had run out of insulin at some point during a trip and 37% reported inadequate attention in current sources of information to the unpredictability of self-management needs while traveling. Especially problematic for individuals traveling with T1D are a lack of resources adequately addressing (1) protocols for emergencies while abroad, (2) how to navigate airport security, and (3) managing basal insulin rates when crossing time zones. A strong need exists for easily accessible, free resources for traveling with T1D that is tailored to both device use and duration of the disease.

Nursing Diagnosis Risk for Unstable Blood Glucose Level in Patients with Diabetes Mellitus

“…The risk factors long-distance travel and use of medicinal plants were also maintained. According to Pinsker et al (2017), long-distance travel is a risk factor for unstable blood glucose in people with type 1 diabetes due to lack of information, presence of unfamiliar foods, time zone changes, inadequate insulin storage during the travel, among others. In addition, plants with mangiferin content, African walnut, kola biter, bitter leaf, cinnamon, turmeric, scent leaf, carob, and ginger can trigger glycemic changes (hypoglycemia and hyperglycemia) in people with diabetes (Ogunyinka, Oyinloye, Adenowo, & Kappo, 2015).…”

Glycemic Control and Factors Impacting Treatment Choice in Tubeless Insulin Pump Users: A Survey of the T1D Exchange Glu Online Community

“…The T1D Exchange Glu online community (myglu.org) includes a diverse group of people with T1D and caregivers, and provides a platform for meaningful research to amplify the collective voice of those living with T1D. [1][2][3][4][5][6] We present findings from a survey of the T1D Exchange Glu online community evaluating self-reported clinical outcomes and patient preferences impacting treatment choice in tubeless insulin pump users (Omnipod ® Insulin Management System, Insulet Corp., Acton, MA, United States) compared to their previous treatment. Eligibility criteria were age ≥18 years, T1D diagnosis ≥1 year, currently using Omnipod System for 0.5 to 2 years, and previously treated with multiple daily injections (MDI) or a tubed insulin pump.…”

Knowledge, attitudes, and practices of primary health care physicians regarding the pre-travel counselling of patients with type 2 diabetes in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

“…2,3 A number of studies have shown that the choice of travel destination by patients with diabetes may be affected by their use of insulin, and some of those patients avoid international travel altogether because of their disease. 4,5 While travelling, people with diabetes face many challenges that can affect their glycaemic control, including changes in their routines regarding diet and physical activity, and difficulties in adjusting insulin dose and timing after crossing multiple times zones, as well as the risk of infectious diseases, especially when travelling to developing countries. 5,6 Many travellers with diabetes are not aware of this health risk.…”