Exploring engagement and implementation of a digital self-management programme designed for people living with early-onset type 2 diabetes
This study is exploring a new online programme called EOT2D MyDESMOND. It's designed for younger adults (aged 18-45) who were diagnosed with type 2 diabetes before they turned 40. This type of diabetes can bring challenges like heart or kidney problems earlier in life, and affect daily activities and mental well-being. The programme offers information, animations, podcasts, and a chat forum to help people understand and manage their diabetes, including topics like mental health, relationships, and work. Participants will use the programme for 12 months and share health information online. The study wants to see how well people use the programme and how it could be made available to more people in the future.
At a glance
What is this study about?
Type 2 diabetes is becoming more common, and increasingly, people are being diagnosed at a younger age. This is often called ‘early-onset type 2 diabetes’. When diabetes starts earlier in life, it can unfortunately lead to health problems like heart or kidney issues at a younger age. It can also make daily life more challenging, affect your mood, and sometimes mean you need to visit healthcare services more often. We know that online programmes can help people with diabetes learn to manage their condition better.
However, there isn't an online programme specifically created for younger adults with early-onset type 2 diabetes. That’s why we developed EOT2D MyDESMOND. We worked closely with people who have this type of diabetes to make sure the programme meets their specific needs. It covers important topics like dealing with diabetes stigma, how diabetes affects your mental health and relationships, and managing it alongside work or studies. It also has features to help you track your activity, blood sugar levels, and well-being, and you can ask healthcare professionals questions.
The main goal of this study is to see how younger adults with early-onset type 2 diabetes use the EOT2D MyDESMOND programme and how it can help them. We want to understand what works well and how we can make it even better and more widely available, potentially through services like the NHS. Ultimately, we hope this programme will help people better manage their diabetes, improve their health, and lead a better quality of life.
Key takeaways
- This study explores a new online programme for younger adults with early-onset type 2 diabetes.
- The programme (EOT2D MyDESMOND) helps with managing diabetes and overall well-being.
- Participation is entirely online over 12 months.
- The study aims to understand programme use and how to make it widely available.
- Potential benefits include improved mental well-being and blood sugar levels, with no expected risks.
Who may be eligible?
This study is looking for adults aged between 18 and 45 years old. To take part, you must have been diagnosed with type 2 diabetes before your 40th birthday. You also need to have access to a computer, tablet, or smartphone to use the online programme and be able to understand the study information in English.
Unfortunately, you cannot take part if you have other types of diabetes, such as type 1 diabetes. Also, if you have used a MyDESMOND online programme in the last six months, you won't be able to join this study. It's important that you also agree to take part and are able to give your permission.
Could this study suit you?
Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.
- Are you between 18 and 45 years old?
- Were you diagnosed with type 2 diabetes before your 40th birthday?
- Do you have access to a device like a computer, tablet, or smartphone?
- Have you not used another MyDESMOND programme in the last 6 months?
- Can you understand information in English?
What does participation involve?
If you decide to take part, you will first complete a registration process. After that, you will get access to the EOT2D MyDESMOND online programme. You can then use this programme as much or as little as you like over a 12-month period. There are no face-to-face visits required for this study. Instead, we will ask you to provide some health information online at different times during these 12 months, using a secure website.
After the 12 months, some participants will be invited to have a chat (an interview) about their experience with the programme. We're also keen to speak to people who didn't use the programme as much, to understand how we can improve it. We also plan to talk to healthcare professionals to find the best ways to get this programme to more people.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (1)
- University Hospitals of Leicester NHS TrustCity onlyLeicester, England
Common questions
What is 'early-onset type 2 diabetes'?
It means being diagnosed with type 2 diabetes at a younger age, specifically before your 40th birthday.
What is the EOT2D MyDESMOND programme?
It's an online programme specifically designed for younger adults with early-onset type 2 diabetes to help them learn about and manage their condition. It includes information, podcasts, and tools to track your health.
Do I need to visit a clinic for this study?
No, there are no in-person visits. All information sharing and programme use happens online.
How long will I be involved in the study?
You'll have access to and use the programme for 12 months. After that, some people will be asked for an interview.
Who is funding this research?
The study is funded by Diabetes UK.
How to find out more
Lisa Moyes
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
Discussion
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