JAMA Netw Open

Technology use rises in type 1 diabetes, but disparities persist

August 15, 2025

Study details: A serial cross-sectional study analyzed EHRs from 186,590 U.S. patients with T1DM, including 26,853 youths and 159,737 adults, from 2009 to 2023. Researchers examined trends in glycemic control (HbA1c <7%) and use of diabetes technology (i.e., continuous glucose monitors [CGMs], insulin pumps) across five 3-year intervals.

Results: Between 2009–2011 and 2021–2023, glycemic control improved from 7% to 19% in youths and from 21% to 28% in adults (P<.001 for trend). CGM use rose from 4% to 82% in youths and 5% to 57% in adults; insulin pump use increased from 16% to 50% in youths and 11% to 29% in adults. Concurrent use of both devices grew from 1% to 47% in youths and 1% to 22% in adults. However, Hispanic, non-Hispanic Black, and Medicaid-insured patients consistently had the lowest rates of technology use and glycemic control, with disparities persisting or worsening over time.

Clinical impact: While technology use has expanded dramatically, most patients still don’t achieve optimal glycemic control. Persistent racial, ethnic, and socioeconomic disparities highlight the need for targeted interventions, equitable access, and culturally responsive care to improve outcomes in T1DM.

Source:

Fang M, et al. (2025, August 1). JAMA Netw Open. Trends and Disparities in Technology Use and Glycemic Control in Type 1 Diabetes. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40788645/