1.Bridging the Gap: Adoption and Barriers to Continuous Glucose Monitoring in Paediatric Type 1 Diabetes
Sok Bee Lim ; Siti Sarah Ahmad Dardiri ; Nalini M. Selveindran ; Arini Nuran Md Idris ; Janet Yeow Hua Hong
Journal of the ASEAN Federation of Endocrine Societies 2026;41(S1):123-
Introduction:
ISPAD guidelines recommend continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) as the standard of care for paediatric type 1 diabetes
(T1DM). However, a “real-world” adoption gap persists, particularly in resource-limited settings. The Introductions of
the study were to evaluate CGM adoption prevalence, identify documented barriers, and compare glycemic outcomes
between active and non-active users.
Methodology:
This retrospective review analyzed electronic medical records (EMR) of 125 paediatric T1DM patients at Hospital Putrajaya
(2025). Data included CGM status, insulin delivery method, and documented barriers. Independent T-tests compared
mean hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) between groups, and multivariable logistic regression identified independent predictors
of adoption.
Results:
Cohort mean age was 11.8 ± 3.8 years. Active CGM users were 32.8% (n = 41), of whom 29.3% (n = 12) utilized predominantly
automated insulin delivery (AID) systems. The remaining 67.2% (n = 84) were classified as non-active users, comprising
both never-users and ex-users (discontinued use). Active users achieved significantly lower mean HbA1c than non-active
users (8.73% vs 9.86%; p <0.001), with no significant difference in rates of DKA (p = 0.564) or severe hypoglycemia (p =
0.250). Among never-users, 42.9% lacked documented technology counselling (p = 0.001). Multivariable analysis identified
funding source as the sole independent predictor of CGM adoption (adjusted OR = 7.76, p <0.001). While the primary
documented barrier was financial (31.0%), a lack of documented barriers was noted in 61.9% of non-active users.
Conclusion
A substantial technology gap exists, primarily driven by financial access rather than clinical demographics. The difference
of 1.13% in HbA1c between groups underscores the need to address financial setbacks to improve technology access in
Malaysia and prevent diabetes complications.
Child
;
Blood Glucose
;
Blood Glucose Self-Monitoring
;
Continuous Glucose Monitoring
;
Diabetes Mellitus, Type 1
2.Diabetes-Related Distress in Adolescents with Type 1 Diabetes
Nur Sabrina Rusli ; Mohd Shafiq Azanan ; Azriyanti Anuar Zaini
Journal of the ASEAN Federation of Endocrine Societies 2026;41(S1):128-
Introduction:
Adolescents with type 1 diabetes (T1D) are vulnerable to diabetes-related distress (DRD), an emotional burden that may
adversely affect glycemic control. Data on DRD among adolescents in Southeast Asia, particularly Malaysia, remain
limited. This study aims to determine the prevalence of DRD and examine its association with glycemic control and sociodemographic background among Malaysian adolescents with T1D.
Methodology:
This cross-sectional study recruited adolescents aged 10–19 years with T1D attending a tertiary Paediatric Endocrine Clinic
in Malaysia between May and August 2025. DRD was assessed using two validated instruments: the Problem Areas in
Diabetes–Teen version (PAID-T) and the Type 1 Diabetes Distress Scale (T1-DDS). Sociodemographic and clinical data,
including glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c), were collected. Associations between distress, glycemic control, and other
variables were analyzed using non-parametric tests, correlation analyses, and multiple linear regression.
Results:
Seventy adolescents participated (median age: 14.65 years). Moderate to severe DRD was reported by 32.9% using PAID-T
and 38.6% using T1-DDS. Higher distress scores on both instruments were significantly correlated with poorer current and
prior HbA1c levels. Adolescents with HbA1c ≤7.0% were more likely to report minimal distress compared to those with
higher HbA1c (p = 0.042, T1-DDS). Subdomain analyses revealed strong associations between emotional distress domains,
particularly powerlessness and family/friends distress, and higher HbA1c. In multivariable regression, DRD, body mass
index, and family/friends distress together explained 35% of the variance in HbA1c. Attendance at diabetes management
camps was not associated with differences in distress levels.
Conclusion
Approximately one-third of Malaysian adolescents with T1D experience clinically significant DRD, which is strongly
associated with suboptimal glycemic control. Emotional and family-related distress appear to play a particularly important
role. Routine screening and targeted psychosocial interventions should be integrated into adolescent diabetes care to
improve both emotional well-being and metabolic outcomes.
Adolescent
;
Humans
;
Diabetes Mellitus, Type 1
3.Glycemic Control in Adolescents with Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus (T1DM): The Role of Health Literacy and Numeracy
Sharon Chung Tuang Yuk ; Joyce Hong Soo Synn ; Lim Poi Giok ; Yang Wai Wai
Journal of the ASEAN Federation of Endocrine Societies 2026;41(S1):130-
Introduction:
Type I diabetes mellitus (T1DM) is the most common form of diabetes diagnosed in childhood. The Diabetes in Children
and Adolescents Registry (Di-CARE) in Malaysia reported that many of these patients are between 10 and 19 years old.
However, little is known about the association of their health literacy and numeracy with their glycemic control.
Methodology:
A cross-sectional study among T1DM patients aged 12 to 19 years old who attended Paediatric Endocrine Clinic at
Hospital Tunku Ampuan Besar Tuanku Aishah Rohani and Hospital Tunku Azizah was conducted from March 2025 to
March 2026. Participants answered 14 questions on the Diabetes Numeracy Test (DNT-14) and completed a 29-item health
literacy questionnaire (myMOHLAA-Q). Data analysis was performed using SPSS version 30. The relationship of health
literacy and numeracy with glucose control (HbA1c) was analyzed using Spearman’s rank order correlation.
Results:
A total of 43 adolescents with T1DM were recruited with a median age of 15.2 years (IQR: 13.2–17.2 years). There were
22 female (51.2%) and 21 male (48.8%) participants. The majority of the participants (n = 27, 62%) had moderate glycemic
control with a median HbA1c of 8.3% (IQR: 7.5–9.6%). A Spearman’s correlation revealed a negative relationship between
mean HbA1c and knowledge on blood glucose monitoring, rs (43) = −0.34, p <0.05. Additionally, positive relationships were
found of knowledge on blood glucose monitoring and knowledge on insulin with total DNT-14 score, rs (43) = 0.54, p <0.001
and rs (43) = 0.78, p <0.001, respectively. The small sample size may have limited the ability to detect other significant
relationships.
Conclusion
The majority of T1DM adolescents have moderate glycemic control. Active intervention in improving knowledge on blood
glucose monitoring and insulin helps to improve glycemic control, reiterating the importance of diabetes education in
the long-term management and glycemic control in adolescents with type 1 diabetes.
Adolescent
;
Humans
;
Diabetes Mellitus, Type 1
;
Glycemic Control
;
Health Literacy
4.Academic Title Case: Paediatric Glucocorticoid-Induced Hyperglycemia and Diabetic Ketoacidosis: An Under-Recognized Complication of Cancer Therapy
Sasirekha Krisnan Morthy ; Annie Leong ; Nurshadia Samingan ; Azriyanti Anuar Zaini
Journal of the ASEAN Federation of Endocrine Societies 2026;41(S1):139-
Introduction:
Paediatric glucocorticoid-induced hyperglycemia (GIH)
and diabetes are frequently under-recognized complications of cancer therapy. Early identification is essential,
as delayed diagnosis may lead to severe metabolic
consequences, including diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA). This
study aims to characterize the clinical features, risk factors,
and outcomes of GIH in a tertiary centre.
Methodology:
A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted at the
Paediatric Endocrinology Unit, University Malaya Medical
Centre, reviewing cases from January 2023 to December
2025. Data were extracted from electronic records, including
demographic, clinical, and treatment-related variables.
Results:
Twelve cases of GIH or diabetes were identified, including
two presenting with DKA. Most patients had leukemia
(92%), with a male predominance (75%). The median age
was 13.6 years, and the median body mass index was 22.1
kg/m². Over half (54%) were overweight or obese, and 45%
exhibited acanthosis nigricans. A family history of diabetes
was present in 75% of cases.
Hyperglycemia developed early in 66% of cases, typically
within 2–5 days of initiating high-dose glucocorticoids.
Median random blood glucose was 21.9 mmol/L, while
median HbA1c was 6.4%. Half were symptomatic, most
commonly with polyuria. Insulin therapy was required in
75% of cases, with a median duration of 26 days. Metformin
was used in 50% of cases, often in combination with insulin.
Most cases resolved following cessation of glucocorticoid
therapy, except one who continues to receive metformin
for a pre-diabetes state.
Conclusion
Adolescents, those with obesity, insulin resistance, and
a positive family history of diabetes, represent highrisk groups for GIH. Importantly, GIH may present
with life-threatening DKA. Routine glucose monitoring
and risk stratification during glucocorticoid therapy are
recommended. The development of local screening and
management guidelines is crucial for improving early
detection and optimizing patient outcomes.
Child
;
Diabetic Ketoacidosis
;
Glucocorticoids
;
Neoplasms
;
Hyperglycemia
5.Beyond Graves’ Disease and Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus: Thyrotoxic Heart Failure and Emerging Polyglandular Syndrome Type 2
Sharon Mui Kim Lim ; Li Yuen Nyin ; Zulaikha Che Imbi ; Farizan AB Ghani
Journal of the ASEAN Federation of Endocrine Societies 2026;41(S1):147-148
Introduction:
The coexistence of autoimmune thyroid disease and type
1 diabetes mellitus is well established; however, their
sequential or concurrent presentation in very young
children remains uncommon. We demonstrate two
paediatric cases with concurrent Graves' disease and type
1 diabetes mellitus, each illustrating distinct complications
and clinical courses.
Cases:
A 3-year-old female presented with anterior neck swelling,
weight loss, and persistent tachycardia. Biochemical
evaluation confirmed severe thyrotoxicosis (T4 152.3
pmol/L, TSH <0.008 mIU/L) with markedly elevated antithyroglobulin and anti–thyroid peroxidase antibodies.
Thyroid ultrasonography demonstrated a diffusely
enlarged, hypervascular gland with nodular changes,
consistent with Graves’ disease. During longitudinal
follow-up, she developed polyuria, polydipsia, and
hyperglycemia, with positive pancreatic autoantibodies
confirming type 1 diabetes mellitus. Notably, serial early
morning cortisol measurements were persistently low,
raising concern for evolving adrenal insufficiency and
suspicion of autoimmune polyglandular syndrome type 2.
Comprehensive endocrine evaluation is ongoing.
A 4-year-old male presented with a 1-year history of
recurrent self-limiting fever followed by significant
fatigability for 1 month. Salient examination on admission
revealed tachycardia, anterior neck swelling, and an
incidental pansystolic murmur. Thyroid function tests
confirmed thyrotoxicosis (T4 38.6 pmol/L, TSH <0.008
mIU/L). Serial serum glucose was markedly elevated on
admission, prompting further testing that confirmed type
1 diabetes mellitus with positive pancreatic autoantibodies.
Echocardiography demonstrated moderate-to-severe mitral
regurgitation with heart failure secondary to prolonged
uncontrolled hyperthyroidism state. Cardiac function
improved with restoration of a euthyroid state, highlighting
the reversible nature of thyrotoxic heart failure.
Conclusion
These cases highlight the progressive nature of childhood
autoimmunity, where Graves’ disease may precede the
development of type 1 diabetes mellitus and evolving
features of autoimmune polyglandular syndrome type
2. They further emphasize that thyrotoxic heart failure is
potentially reversible with restoration of a euthyroid state,
underscoring the importance of early recognition and
vigilant long-term surveillance.
Diabetes Mellitus, Type 1
;
Graves Disease
;
Heart Failure
;
Diabetes Mellitus, Type 2
6.A cross-sectional study on the prevalence and risk factors of erectile dysfunction among young and middle-aged male patients with diabetes mellitus at a Tertiary Hospital in Manila.
Edmond R. DAVID ; Elaine C. CUNANAN ; Erick S. MENDOZA
Journal of Medicine University of Santo Tomas 2026;10(1):1827-1836
This study aims to determine the prevalence of erectile dysfunction (ED) and identify its associated risk factors among young and middle-aged Filipino male patients diagnosed with diabetes mellitus. This study utilized a cross-sectional design to investigate the prevalence and associated factors of ED among male patients with diabetes. A total of 423 participants were recruited from clinical settings using purposive sampling. Data were collected using structured interviews and medical records, including demographics, comorbidities and laboratory results. Among 423 male diabetic patients, 78% were found to have ED. Patients with ED were significantly older (median: 49.5 versus 42 years, p<0.001), had higher body mass index (BMI), longer diabetes duration and more comorbidities. Univariable logistic regression showed that age (OR: 1.06, p<0.001), diabetes duration (OR: 1.11, p<0.001), hypertension (OR: 1.62, p = 0.042), dyslipidemia (OR: 1.75, p = 0.022), elevated HbA1c (>9.0%; OR: 3.43, p = 0.034) and serum creatinine (OR: 1.01, p = 0.008) were significantly associated with ED. However, none remained significant in the multivariable model. Male Filipino patients with diabetes have a significant burden of ED. Results of the univariable models show that age, duration of diabetes, hypertension, dyslipidemia, HbA1c and serum creatinine are significant individual predictors of ED.
Human ; Male ; Adolescent: 13-18 Yrs Old ; Young Adult: 19-24 Yrs Old ; Adult: 25-44 Yrs Old ; Middle Aged: 45-64 Yrs Old ; Aged: 65-79 Yrs Old ; Tertiary Care Centers ; Risk Factors ; Risk ; Medical Records ; Erectile Dysfunction ; Diabetes Mellitus ; Philippines
7.Hemichorea in the setting of diabetic striatopathy uniquely associated with concurrent myelofibrosis: A case report.
Isabella Chesca P. TAYAG ; Raymond L. ROSALES
Journal of Medicine University of Santo Tomas 2026;10(1):1918-1922
Hemichorea, a hyperkinetic disorder characterized by involuntary, rapid, irregular movements on one side of the body, typically originates from cortical basal ganglia involvement, particularly the striatum. We present a 63-year-old Filipino female with poor glycemic control and known idiopathic myelofibrosis exhibiting chorea-ballism movements in the right distal and proximal extremities. Significant improvement in involuntary movements was observed upon optimal glycemic control and benzodiazepine therapy. This report underscores the noteworthy presentation of uncontrolled hyperglycemia in type 2 diabetes, while highlighting the potential contribution of myelofibrosis.
Human ; Female ; Middle Aged: 45-64 Yrs Old ; Primary Myelofibrosis ; Research Report ; Glycemic Control ; Hyperglycemia ; Diabetes Mellitus, Type 2
8.A cross-sectional study on the degree of awareness of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus complication-related risk factors among Filipinos.
Francis Pasaporte ; Marsha Tolentino
Philippine Journal of Internal Medicine 2026;64(1):1-6
OBJECTIVES
In the past decade, the prevalence of diabetes in the Philippines has been increasing. The prevalence of diabetes is 7.1% and it is the sixth leading cause of death among adults. Preventive measures to address the incidence of diabetes, as well as diabetes-related complications, have been in place. However, knowledge of the risk factors for developing cardiovascular or renal-related Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) complications has numerous benefits for T2DM patients. This study aimed to describe common risk factors among Filipino T2D patients which increase their risk of developing cardiorenal complications including Heart Failure and CKD. Furthermore, the study aimed to assess the
awareness of T2DM patients regarding these risk factors
A clinic-based cross-sectional survey among Filipinos with T2DM Philippines was conducted in the different regions in the Philippines from April 2021 to January 2022. The study participants were 16,268 patients of various ages and sex, however, only 11,578 of them answered the form completely. The patients and their corresponding physicians answered a validated self-assessment form on whether they had 8 identified risk factors for T2DM.
RESULTSThis survey identified Hypertension as the most common risk factor present in 96.49% of T2DM patients followed by Dyslipidemia (82.56%), Family History of CVD (77.11%), Obesity (59.66%), Kidney Disease (38.08%), Personal History of CVD (36.22%), Smoking (35.49%) and Family History of Kidney Disease (33.05%). Most patients were aware of the presence of these risk factors. However, there were some identified by the physician but unknown to the patient. In decreasing order of frequency, these were personal history of heart and blood vessel diseases (7.19%), followed by family history of kidney disease (5.44%) and smoking (5.1%).
CONCLUSIONThis survey was able to identify crucial risk factors in developing T2DM complications that are most common among T2DM patients in the Philippines. Furthermore, for the first time, the study was able to show the level of awareness of T2DM patients regarding the risk factors that they have in developing these complications. These data show the importance of determining and addressing the common risk factors in preventing T2DM complications. Moreover, identification of these risk factors is an important step in prevention of cardiorenal complications.
Identification (psychology) ; Cross-sectional Studies ; Diabetes Mellitus, Type 2 ; Diabetes Complications ; Kidney Diseases
9.Association of the clinical profile and outcomes of Gestational Diabetes Mellitus Patients admitted in a Tertiary Hospital in Cebu City from January 2021 to December 2022.
Joshua H. SERVANDE ; Ma. Vircel DUYONGCO-TIU
Philippine Journal of Internal Medicine 2026;64(1):7-20
OBJECTIVES
This study aimed at determining the association of the clinical profile of patients with GDM to maternal and neonatal outcomes
METHODSThis single-center, retrospective, descriptive, cross-sectional chart review was conducted in a tertiary hospital in Cebu City to 229 patients with GDM admitted from January 2021 to December 2022.
RESULTSThe study revealed several significant associations. Hypertension was strongly linked with primary cesarean section (OR: 4.32, P-value 0.004); and severe pre-eclampsia (OR: 16.97, P-value: 0.000). Gravidity showed significant correlations with Ballard’s score (P-value: 0.013), birthweight (P-value: 0.045) and 5-minute APGAR score (P-value: 0.001). Parity was associated with birthweight (P-value: 0.011) and 5-minute APGAR score (P-value: 0.001). Weight gain during pregnancy was linked to birthweight (P-value: 0.004) and occurrence of congenital anomalies (OR: 1.26, P-Value: 0.032). Additionally, prenatal smoking was associated with 5-minute APGAR score (P-value: 0.006). Moreover, having a Small for Gestational Age (SGA) fetal growth status is associated with insulin-requiring mothers, (OR: 4.79, P-Value: 0.049); and a family history of diabetes was significantly associated with insulin therapy (OR: 5.38, P-value: 0.021).
CONCLUSIONPatients' clinical profile affect maternal and neonatal outcomes among patients with GDM. Careful consideration of these factors during the perinatal period may help reduce maternal and fetal risks
Tertiary Care Centers ; Smoking ; Pregnancy ; Diabetes, Gestational ; Hypertension ; Apgar Score
10.Approximation of serum bicarbonate concentration using serum carbon dioxide combining power in patients with diabetic ketoacidosis.
Meghan Marie ALIÑO ; Gorgonia PANILAGAO
Philippine Journal of Internal Medicine 2026;64(1):56-62
BACKGROUND
Determination of serum bicarbonate (HCO3 - ) using arterial blood gas analysis in patients with diabetic ketoacidosis allows for the evaluation of the severity of the condition, determines whether HCO3 - therapy is required, and tracks the progression and resolution of the disease. Serum carbon dioxide combining power (CO2CP) from venous chemistry analysis has often been used as an indicator of metabolic acidosis. This study investigated the relationship between HCO3 - and CO2CP and developed an approximation formula for serum bicarbonate concentration using its predictor variables, as this may lessen the need to repeat arterial blood gas analysis or be used in settings in which blood gas analyzers are unavailable.
METHODOLOGYThis single-center, retrospective, cross-sectional study investigated a total of 77 patients diagnosed with diabetic ketoacidosis. Assessment of the bivariate correlations between serum HCO3 - and serum CO2CP as well as other potential predictor variables was done via Pearson’s correlation coefficient. Predictor variables that were significantly correlated with serum HCO3 - were identified and an approximation formula was developed by regression analysis. Evaluation of the correlation between the approximated HCO3 - value and the actual serum HCO3 - concentration was performed using correlation coefficient and residual statistics to assess agreement.
RESULTSSerum CO2CP had significant correlation with serum HCO3 - (r = 0.768, p < 0.05). By multiple regression analysis, the following approximation formula was therefore expressed: HCO3 - = 12.682 + (0.612 x CO2CP) – [ketones] + (0.085 x BUN) - (0.026 x SGPT) – (1.23 x Creatinine) - (0.067 x Chloride). Examination of residuals revealed a mean of zero (0), indicating no significant difference between the actual and approximated levels of serum HCO3 -
CONCLUSIONThe predictor variables included in the formula collectively contribute significantly to the approximation of serum HCO3 - . The approximated serum HCO3 - values also showed significant correlation with actual serum HCO3 - concentration; thus, the formula may be utilized to derive an approximation of serum bicarbonate concentration in patients with diabetic ketoacidosis.
Human ; Male ; Female ; Adolescent: 13-18 Yrs Old ; Young Adult: 19-24 Yrs Old ; Adult: 25-44 Yrs Old ; Attention ; Bicarbonates ; Carbon Dioxide ; Diabetic Ketoacidosis ; Ketosis ; Patients ; Carbon ; Power (psychology) ; Power, Psychological ; Serum


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