Knowledge and Attitudes Regarding Continuous Glucose Monitors as Predictors of Current Use.

Abstract

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the individual influences of knowledge and attitudes about continuous glucose monitors (CGMs) among adults with type 1 or type 2 diabetes.

Methods: Adults diagnosed with type 1 or type 2 diabetes completed an online survey regarding knowledge and attitudes about CGM use. Knowledge was measured using the benefits subscale of the CGM Satisfaction Scale, and attitudes were measured using the hassles subscale. Binomial regression was used to evaluate the individual influence of knowledge and attitudes and their predictive ability for current CGM use.

Results: A total of 58 adults participated. Of these, 38 (66%) reported current CGM use, and among current users, 90% reported a diagnosis of type 1 diabetes, and 10% reported a diagnosis of type 2 diabetes. Attitudes regarding CGM were statistically better than knowledge. Current use of a CGM correlated with knowledge and attitudes, and therefore, knowledge and attitudes were entered into binomial logistic regression. The model was statistically significant, explaining 36% of the variance in current CGM use. Participants with better attitudes were more likely to use a CGM, while those with greater knowledge were less likely to do so.

Conclusions: Consistent with the hypothesis, knowledge and attitudes influenced use of CGM differently. Based on these findings, patient education to promote use of CGM should focus on improving attitudes regarding the hassles of CGM as these exert the greatest influence on current use.