The role of recent life events and social support in the control of diabetes mellitus. A pilot study.
This study evaluated objectively the relationship between recent life events, social support systems, and blood glucose control in diabetic patients using both short-term [fasting blood sugar (FBS)] and long-term [glycosylated hemoglobin (Hgb A-1C)] measures of control. We found that a higher number of life events was associated with a higher percentage of abnormal FBS and Hgb A-1C results, and that improved social support was associated with a smaller percentage of abnormal Hgb A-1C scores. These pilot findings are discussed in connection with a biopsychosocial approach to the understanding and management of diabetes mellitus.
Schwartz
L S
LS
Springer
J
J
Flaherty
J A
JA
Kiani
R
R
D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D001786:Blood Glucose / Q000032:analysis; D003920:Diabetes Mellitus / Q000097:blood / Q000523:psychology* / Q000628:therapy; D005260:Female; D006442:Glycated Hemoglobin / Q000032:analysis; D006801:Humans; D008016:Life Change Events; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D010349:Patient Compliance; D010865:Pilot Projects; D012931:Social Environment; D012944:Social Support
D001786:Blood Glucose; D006442:Glycated Hemoglobin