Family vs Standard Diabetes Education for Type 2 Diabetes
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial compares two approaches to diabetes education for individuals with type 2 diabetes. One group will attend sessions with a family member to learn about managing diabetes together, while the other group will attend sessions independently. The researchers aim to determine if involving family members in education impacts diabetes management. Individuals with long-standing type 2 diabetes who haven't recently received formal diabetes education might be suitable for this trial. As an unphased trial, this study provides a unique opportunity to explore new educational strategies that could enhance diabetes management.
Do I need to stop my current medications for this trial?
The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications. It seems to focus on diabetes education rather than medication changes.
Is there any evidence suggesting that this trial's treatments are likely to be safe?
Research shows that diabetes self-management education and support (DSMES) is generally safe for people with type 2 diabetes. DSMES has effectively helped manage diabetes for many years by teaching patients to control their blood sugar levels through lifestyle changes. Studies have shown that DSMES can lower A1C levels, which measure blood sugar, without causing significant side effects.
For safety, DSMES includes educational sessions led by certified diabetes educators. These sessions focus on setting goals and making healthy lifestyle changes. No serious side effects or safety issues have been reported from these educational programs. Therefore, both Family-DSME and Standard-DSME are expected to be safe and well-tolerated by participants.12345Why are researchers excited about this trial?
Researchers are excited about these diabetes education approaches because they both aim to boost self-management in people with Type 2 Diabetes (T2D), but the Family Diabetes Self-Management Education and Support (Family-DSME) program takes it a step further by involving family members in the process. Unlike standard programs that focus solely on the individual, Family-DSME includes family motivational interviewing, goal-setting, and education on supportive behaviors, which could create a more supportive home environment for the patient. This approach might enhance the patient's ability to manage their condition effectively, potentially leading to better health outcomes. Researchers hope to find out if involving family members in diabetes education makes a significant difference in managing T2D compared to the traditional, patient-only education model.
What evidence suggests that this trial's treatments could be effective for type 2 diabetes?
This trial compares two approaches to diabetes education: Family Diabetes Self-Management Education and Support (Family-DSME) and Standard Diabetes Self-Management Education and Support (Standard-DSME). Research has shown that education programs for managing type 2 diabetes are effective. When family members participate, as in the Family-DSME arm of this trial, it can be even more beneficial. Studies suggest that family involvement boosts support and understanding, leading to better diabetes control. These family-focused programs succeed by considering both the patient and family interactions, which are crucial for long-term success. Overall, including family in diabetes education can increase motivation and support, potentially leading to better outcomes for those with type 2 diabetes.56789
Who Is on the Research Team?
Pearl McElfish, PhD
Principal Investigator
UAMS
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for adults over 18 with type 2 diabetes (HbA1c ≥ 7.0) who have not had formal diabetes education in the past three years and have a family member willing to participate. It's not suitable for those unable to follow the study protocol due to other conditions.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants receive DSMES sessions over 10 weeks, with family members participating in the Family-DSMES arm
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for changes in diabetes management and health outcomes post-intervention
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Family Diabetes Self-Management Education and Support
- Standard Diabetes Self-Management Education and Support
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
University of Arkansas
Lead Sponsor
Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute
Collaborator