Evaluation of a Mobile Application to Optimize Decision-making in Self-management and Reduction of Complications in Persons With Type 1 Diabetes

Metabolic lack of control in patients with type 1 diabetes Mellitus (T1DM) leads to kidney failure, non-traumatic amputations, blindness, and reduced life expectancy. In addition, determining the content of macronutrients in food is not the domain of many patients, particularly adolescents, or some physicians, making insulin adjustment difficult, one of the main failures of optimal metabolic control. One way to bridge the knowledge gaps in T1D self-management is by using technology to optimize metabolic control and reduce the risks of associated comorbidities, with a mobile application that helps optimize decision-making in self-management. And a reduction of complications in adolescents (14-18 years) with T1DM. This project aims to develop this application that contributes to decision-making and the reduction of comorbidities of adolescents with T1DM, following the policies of the Dominican state through Digital systems, together with its educational mission, technological access, and national competitiveness.

There are no mobile applications in use in the Dominican Republic for the self-management of chronic diseases. Therefore, the investigators have designed a mobile application with a postprandial insulin bolus calculator. In addition, the developers has added a list of foods from the region where users can select their foods and adjust them with the amount of insulin to metabolize them. The methodology includes a mixed approach (qualitative and quantitative) before starting the study and after three months of using the application.

To evaluate the acceptability and effectiveness of the application, we will carry out a pilot evaluation test. The participants in this pilot test will be 20 people between 14 and 18 years old with T1DM, users of INDEN. This experimental study has a systematized probabilistic sample from the center's master list. They were randomized, not controlled. Therefore, the participants are users of the pediatric diabetology service, and included prior explanation and approval of informed consent. These 20 participants will be recruited, ensuring the equitable distribution between gender and sociodemographic data of the mentioned group while maintaining the intention to treat.

Inclusion criteria:

-Patients between 14-18 years old with diabetes type 1.