Impact of Prevailing Awareness on The Psychosocial Impact of The COVID-19 Pandemic Among T1DM Patients from North India

Abstract

Background: SARS-CoV-2 has impregnated its effect on the physical and mental status of affected individuals worldwide. The psychosocial impact on individuals with pre-existing medical illnesses is not well documented. Objectives: To evaluate the extent of awareness about COVID-19 and its symptoms, prevention, and quantifying the anxiety among individuals with T1DM during the lockdown in India. Methods: An online survey-based observational study was conducted in two clinics in North India among children and adults with T1DM. A Google form was circulated among the participants and their response was assessed using SPSS version 25. Results:Among 44 study individuals, about 97% had a good extent of knowledge of the COVID-19 symptoms. The mean age of the study population was 20.78±8.35. The male-to-female ratio was 1.2:1. More than half of the individuals were well-versed in diabetic knowledge (carb ratio, correction factor). Around three-fourths of the patients were able to continue their exercise routine during the pandemic. Almost all (97.7%) patients were aware of COVID-19-associated symptoms, preventive care, and ways of transmission. Almost half of them were anxious about the COVID-19 pandemic. This was mainly attributed to better media coverage and communication between each other. Assessment using the COVID-19 anxiety score indicated that less than 50% of the participants experienced anxiety. Conclusion: Dealing with T1DM is a challenge for the healthcare system and it is even more challenging during the pandemic period. Prior knowledge and awareness seem to mitigate anxiety and related issues in individuals with chronic illness, especially T1DM. Keywords: T1DM, COVID-19 pandemic, Mental health, Psychosocial effect, Mental anxiety