Long-Term Hb_A1c, Physical Fitness, Nerve Conduction Velocities, and Quality of Life in Children with Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus—A Pilot Study

Abstract

Objective: The aim of this study was to examine a possible association of HbA1c, quality of life (QoL), fitness, and electrophysiological parameters in children with type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM). Methods: The study population (n = 34) consisted of patients with T1DM (n = 17) and an age-, sex-, and BMI-matched healthy control group (n = 17). HbA1c was obtained from patients with T1DM at time of diagnosis (T0), at 6 months (T6), at 12 months (T12), and at time of study inclusion (Tstudy). QoL was determined with a standardized questionnaire (KINDL-R). All children completed a 6-min walk test (6MWT) to evaluate their fitness level. Electrodiagnostic studies established upper and lower limb motor and sensory nerve conduction velocities (NCV). Results: Higher HbA1c (Tstudy) was associated with lower QoL showing in the subscales self-esteem, friends, and school. Higher HbA1c at (T6) and (T12) was associated with lower QoL in the subscale self-esteem. Based on various subscales, perceived problem areas differed significantly between children and their parents. No differences in fitness level and NCV were found between patients and controls except for a significantly slower median motor NCV in patients. HbA1c was not associated with NCVs at this early stage of disease. Conclusions: Good metabolic control reflected by adequate HbA1c values seems to be important for a good QoL in children with T1DM. Early HbA1c might be associated with QoL during follow-up.

Keywords

• type 1 diabetes mellitus
• children
• Hb_A1c
• quality of life
• metabolic control