Results of Two Strategies for Peer-Support in Patients with Recently Diagnosed Type 2 Diabetes

Abstract

Authors: Ana Cristina García-Ulloa, Jorge Alberto Ramírez-García, Michelle Díaz-Pineda, Christa Nadine Ovalle-Escalera, Rodrigo Eduardo Arizmendi-Rodríguez, María Luisa Velasco-Pérez, Sergio Hernández-Jiménez. Objective: To investigate whether a peer-support (PS) program at-distance (PSAD) helps maintain metabolic and mental health in patients with a recent diagnosis of type 2 diabetes (T2DM) after a multidisciplinary intervention. Methods: Patients were randomized in PSAD and PS face-to-face groups (PSFF). Leaders were selected if they accomplished the eligibility criteria such as metabolic control and mental health department approval. Results: We included 133 patients divided into three groups, at-distance (n=62), face-to-face (n=59), and leaders (n=12). Patients in the PSFF had higher odds of reaching glycemic targets at three months than PSAD (OR 2.52 95%CI 1.18-5.38, p=0.01) and improved scores in Diabetes Quality of Life Measure (DQoL) and empowerment. Conclusion: PS increases long-term empowerment and decreases problem areas in T2DM, which increases the likelihood of achieving HbA1c target goals, LDL-C control, and promotes weight loss.