Young adults with type 1 diabetes: prevalence of, and associations with atypical complications.

Abstract

Introduction: The prevalence of, and associations with, hearing loss, oral and olfactory disease, frozen shoulder, trigger finger, and hair loss in type 1 diabetes is unclear. Objective(s): Our review aimed to determine, in young adults with type 1 diabetes (mean age+/-1SD 18-30 years), the reported prevalence of, and associations with such complications. Method(s): We conducted a quantitative systematic review. PubMed, CINAHL, and Cochrane were searched (January 2000- February 2024) using Medical Subject Headings and keywords; the reference lists of all eligible records were also hand-searched. Overall, 28 records were retrieved. Quality appraisal was undertaken, with data generally of high quality. Result(s): Findings underscore a relatively high prevalence of hearing loss and oral disease in the study population. For example, in a Chinese study 48% were reported to have hearing loss, while Brazilian studies reported 52.9% xerostomia and 40.8% hyposalivation. Data pertaining to associations with hearing loss were limited. Regarding oral diseases, findings largely suggested that there was no relationship with glycaemic control. Findings relating to the impact of diabetes duration were more inconsistent. No data were available concerning frozen shoulder, trigger finger, and hair loss. Conclusion(s): Hearing loss and oral disease should be considered in consensus clinical practice guidelines relating to type 1 diabetes. Informed by such guidelines, healthcare professionals can assist in screening for, management and secondary prevention of these complications in this population. Related healthcare should involve optimal communication between all applicable providers and be underpinned by knowledge around atypical type 1 diabetes- related complications.