Diabetes and medical devices: which device for which patient?

Aim(s) or purpose: We propose to investigate the profile of patients currently on insulin therapy with an insulin pump (CSII) and those on multiple daily injections (MDI), in order to identify the variables that influence the use and the choice of two different types of devices. Design and method: A cross-sectional study will be conducted to estimate the prevalence of diabetes with MDI therapy and insulin pump (CSII). Also, a matched case-control (1:1) design will be performed considering as cases patients who have been undergoing insulin pump therapy for at least six months and as controls the patients with MDI therapy. The patients enrolled in this study are  18 years (adults) and < 18 years (paediatric). These epidemiological studies are preceded by a pilot study conducted in the Health Centers of Sardinia (Italy) randomly selected to validate the questionnaire used for the interview. Data collection involves the detection of patient clinical data (medical record source) and life-style data (structured questionnaire source) by an interview form, by the same interviewer. The interaction between interviewer and interviewee is face-to-face and the patient enrolled in the study did not see the questionnaire. In this way, the emotional independence of the answers to the questionnaire and the consequent absence of conditioning the reading of the same are ensured. Multivariate statistical analysis and logistic regression models are used for the statistical analysis of data collected. Results: To define the profiles of patients with insulin-dependent diabetes and the effects of demographic and clinical variables, lifestyle and behaviour on the choice of the most appropriate medical device.Conclusions: The results of the research are innovative to diabetes care in general practice because they will help medical professionals to personalize care and help each diabetic patient choose the most suitable medical device (MDI or CSII).