Effect of treatment non-compliance on mortality in patients with type 1 diabetes

This study aimed to determine the effect of treatment non-compliance on mortality rates in type 1 diabetes patients. Results showed that mortality was higher in patients who did not follow the prescribed treatment.

Approximately 10% of all diabetes mellitus patients have type 1 diabetes as a result of a complete lack of insulin. Insulin is a hormone that is responsible for the regulation of blood sugar levels. Increased blood sugar levels damage body organs which in turn leads to complications such as coronary heart diseases and stroke. People diagnosed with type 1 diabetes are most often managed by insulin therapy (daily injections or use of an insulin pump). Patients with type 1 diabetes need insulin to survive and to prevent complications. Treatment compliance and regular follow-up are essential for the adequate management of diabetes.

The present study assessed medication compliance and clinic attendance of patients with type 1 diabetes. Patient data was collected from The Health Improvement Network (THIN) database that employs what is called the Read coding system to record diagnoses and treatment related procedures. Of the 2946 patients included in the study, 867 had a record of treatment non-complicance. Patients who had missed their follow up visits were also more likely to be non-compliant to treatment. The study established that treatment non-compliance was associated with increased overall mortality.

In summary, results suggest that mortality is higher in patients who do not follow the prescribed type 1 diabetes treatment.

This study is limited by the fact that the use of Read codes is subject to the health care provider's assessment of the patient. The accuracy and consistency of such reporting are not clearly defined. Further research is required to determine which aspects of treatment non-compliance carry a higher risk of mortality.