Abstract
BACKGROUND: Strict isolation measures and interrupted health care services during the COVID 19 pandemic are contemplated to instigate stress universally, particularly in those with chronic illnesses such as type 1 diabetes (T1D). METHODS: A cross-sectional, observational study was done to assess determinants of stress and its impact on glycemic control in adolescents and young adults (aged 12-24 years) living with T1D in India. An online, semi-structured survey including Perceived Stress Scale (PSS-10) was distributed and results were analyzed. RESULTS: A total of 89 participants (46 males, mean age 19.61 ± 3.8 years) with T1D completed the survey. Age (r = 0.325, p = 0.005) and HBA1C level within the preceding 3 months (r = 0.274, p = 0.036) correlated positively with PSS-10 scores. There was a statistically significant difference in PSS-10 score based on gender (t(70) = - 2.147; p = 0.035), education (F (4,67) = 4.34, p = 0.003), and occupation (F(3,68) = 4.50, p = .006). On multiple linear regression, gender, occupation, and HbA1C were the significant determinants of PSS-10 (F(3,55) = 12.01, p < 0.001, R (2) = 0.363). One-way ANOVA showed a significant impact of mean PSS-10 score on the glycemic control (F(2,69) = 3.813, p = 0.027). CONCLUSION: An increased prevalence of stress was seen among Indian adolescents and young adults living with T1D. Female gender, salaried individuals, and pre-existing poorly controlled diabetes contributed to an increased risk of stress. Increased stress resulted in worsened glycemic control.