Six-month evaluation of a diabetes self-awareness intervention.

Abstract

The purpose of this pilot study was to evaluate the effectiveness of a self-awareness intervention in promoting increased awareness of body cues associated with various levels of glycemia and in enhancing well-being in persons with Type I diabetes and hypoglycemia unawareness. Study results indicated that participants could identify more cues of normal blood glucose; experienced fewer blood glucose levels below 3.5 mmol/L, fewer hypoglycemia unawareness-related events, and improved glycemia; but reported lower diabetes quality of life. The self-awareness intervention represents an innovative theory-based approach for helping clients with Type I diabetes and hypoglycemia unawareness to achieve positive health outcomes.