Examining Medical and Demographic Associations With the Diabetes Management Questionnaire Among Racially Minoritized Youth With Type 1 Diabetes

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to examine demographic and diabetes-related factors with the Diabetes Management Questionnaire (DMQ) among racially minoritized youth with type 1 diabetes.

Methods

A descriptive correlational study was employed. Youth and their caregivers were enrolled in a behavioral intervention to promote optimal continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) use along with completing the DMQ at baseline.

Results

Participants included 60 youth ages 10 to 15 years (53% Black, 27% Hispanic/Latino/a/x, 12% another minoritized identity, 8% White; mean A1C = 10.6% ± 2.0%). Only child age was significantly associated with caregiver DMQ scores. No other demographic or medical variables, including A1C, were significantly related to DMQ scores. Mean youth DMQ scores significantly differed between samples, with the current sample reporting stronger adherence to diabetes management regimens despite higher overall A1C.

Conclusions

The lack of associations between the DMQ and demographic or medical variables in this sample compared to that of the validation sample suggest that the DMQ may have weaker psychometric properties among racially minoritized families. It is crucial that existing questionnaires like the DMQ be reexamined in a larger, more racially diverse population, where structural factors, beyond individual management behaviors, also influence A1C.