Abstract
Objective: The aim of this integrative review was to explore from the adolescent perspective the experience of living with Type 2 Diabetes (T2D).
Background: Type 2 diabetes accounts for 90-95% of diagnosed diabetes cases world-wide, with an estimated 462 million people living with T2D in 2017. Incidence rates for T2D are increasing among all age groups, posing complex issues to overburdened health care systems. Adolescent-onset T2D is a chronic endocrine disease affecting thousands of children internationally. Adolescent-onset T2D is a rapidly progressing disease with beta cell deterioration occurring four times faster than adults with T2D. Medication failure is common and higher rates of morbidity and mortality are seen among adolescent-onset T2D cases compared to adult-onset T2D cases. Adolescent-onset T2D affects adolescents of ethnic minority groups at a disproportionately high rate.
Method: An integrative literature review was conducted utilizing the Toronto and Remington (2020) approach to explore existing literature on adolescent experiences living with T2D. A total of seven qualitative articles were systematically selected for the integrative review. Through the data extraction and analysis process, three key themes and nine subthemes were identified and are discussed throughout the review.
Results/Findings: Adolescents described how they engage with self-care behaviours, what emotions they feel, experiences of Type 2 Diabetes symptoms and complications as well as social difficulties. Adolescents also described positive aspects to managing their condition, as well as the most difficult aspects of T2D.
Significance: The recommendations and findings of this integrative review add to existing literature regarding the importance of self-management for those with chronic diseases. The findings also highlight the mental and emotional difficulties experienced with adolescent-onset T2D, as well as the need for support in these areas. Exploring the issue from the patient perspective allows for more effective treatment options to be developed and offered to patients.