Abstract Body

It has long been recognized that a biopsychosocial approach to diabetes management is required for optimal health outcomes. In 1948, the World Health Organization (WHO) defined health beyond the absence of disease or infirmity to include ‘a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being’ [who-definition-of-health-1.jpg (888×665) (publichealth.com.ng)]. Furthermore, the WHO constitution states the enjoyment of the highest attainable standard of health is one of the fundamental rights of every human being without distinction of race, religion, political belief, economic or social condition [Constitution of the World Health Organization (who.int)]

The challenge lies in the delivery of healthcare that achieve these goals. Many patient-reported outcome measures have been developed for use in diabetes, however their quality is variable. Furthermore, some measures are designed for use in clinical trials rather than in clinical practice and it is often not possible to determine what represents a meaningful difference of improvement or otherwise.

In 2020, the FDA qualified the first PRO for use specifically in diabetes. This milestone represented an achievement of parity of esteem between standardized, rigorous assessment of a physical health outcome and a mental health outcome. Translating that standard into routine clinical care is necessary to enable healthcare professionals to effectively support their patients in optimal self-management of their diabetes.

This presentation will provide clarity on what represents a patient-reported outcome, why that is important, what the underpinning science is pertaining to PROs, including mechanism of action and improvements in physical or mental health outcomes.

Abstract Body

There are many factors affecting glucose management at different stages in life for girls and women with type 1 diabetes. From puberty through to menopause, sexual health and reproductive function present considerable challenges for many with both physical and mental health consequences. Female sexual health remains a much-neglected area in diabetes clinical medicine, however it is important for psychological and social well-being. Sexual health issues for women go beyond pre-conception care and pregnancy. The risk of sexual dysfunction is 2.5 times higher for women with type 1 diabetes with contributing factors spanning interpersonal, social, psycholgoical and biological issues. Given the complex nature of type 1 diabetes, its management and its complications it is unsurprising that female sexual health is markedly affected by the condition. This presentation will explore some of the factors affecting women with type 1 diabetes across the ages in the context of barriers to optimal glucose management and how these can be overcome.