Glycemic control and its associated factors among children and adolescents with type 1 diabetes in Ethiopia: a narrative review.

Abstract

Glycemic control is a critical component in the management of diabetes mellitus among children and adolescents. This narrative review synthesizes existing evidence on the status of glycemic control-both good and poor-and its associated factors among Ethiopian children and adolescents living with diabetes. The objective of the review was to assess the pattern of glycemic control and identify factors associated with both good and poor glycemic outcomes among children and adolescents with diabetes in Ethiopia. Relevant studies reporting on glycemic control and associated factors were identified through searches conducted in Google Scholar, PubMed/MEDLINE, African Journals Online, and the Ethiopian Medical Journal. Additional grey literature sources were also reviewed. Eligible studies were screened and narratively synthesized. The prevalence of poor glycemic control among Ethiopian children and adolescents ranged from 39.3% to 89.3%. Conversely, good glycemic control was reported in 16.4% to 60.7% of participants. Factors associated with glycemic control included socio-demographic characteristics, treatment-related variables, health system constraints, and dietary habits. Poor glycemic control is widespread among Ethiopian children and adolescents with diabetes, underscoring the urgent need for improved management strategies and targeted interventions. Strengthening diabetes education, promoting self-monitoring of blood glucose, and improving access to essential medical supplies and insulin may help enhance glycemic outcomes.