Human Factors Associated with Continuous Glucose Monitor Use in Patients with Diabetes: A Systematic Review

Abstract

Consistent continuous glucose monitor (CGM) use is associated with substantial improvements in glycemic control, yet the uptake and continued use of these technologies remains low. This systematic review aims to identify and summarize the state of science on human factors and their association with CGM use to inform training methods and best practices that support adherence to CGM use and automated insulin delivery systems. A literature search was conducted in PubMed, CINAHL, The Cochrane Library, and PsychInfo databases using PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) guidelines to identify studies that reported psychological human factors related to CGM or sensor-augmented pump use in patients with type 1 diabetes. In total, 389 records were identified through our database search and 26 studies published between 2010 and 2017 were included. Articles underwent quality appraisal using the Effective Public Health Practice Project Quality Assessment Tool and were categorized according to study outcomes. Identified human factors with a potential association with CGM use were treatment satisfaction, quality of life, emotional distress, and self-efficacy. Eight patient-reported barriers to CGM use were identified as a subcomponent of satisfaction. To date, studies of human factors associated with CGM use generally lack standardized measures and sufficient methodological rigor necessary to establish causation. A more robust understanding of how identified human factors influence CGM use is necessary. Future studies should test interventions that target human factors to improve consistency of use and establish best practices for enhancing patients' experience and acceptance of these technologies, especially within adolescents and young adults.