Exploring the lived experience of adolescents with type 1 diabetes receiving treatment at Tikur Anbessa Specialized Hospital, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia: A Qualitative Study

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Date

2019-09

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Addis Abeba University

Abstract

Introduction Type 1 diabetes demands lifestyle changes including diet controlling, monitoring of blood glucose level and administering of insulin. Improved self-care and gaining positive attitudes can help to enhance better glucose management and promote long-term benefits. Moreover, understanding the lived experience of adolescents who live with type 1 diabetes from their own perspective is a significant step in improving diabetes treatment outcomes for this age group. Methods This qualitative study explored the lived experience of adolescents who live with type 1 diabetic who are receiving outpatient treatment service at TASH. Data was gathered from ten participants and using Semi-structured interviews. The interviews were conducted in Amharic, transcribed and then translated in to English. The data was analyzed using thematic analysis. Results All participants mentioned that they have problematic relationships with their parents regarding diabetic management and self-care. The over involvement from parents is a concern for participants for independent living and self-management of their condition. The short and long term complications of the condition, the dissatisfaction in the treatment service, lack of knowledge and understanding of parents about the condition were mentioned as challenges. Accepting their condition by developing awareness and knowledge from the training they get from the Ethiopian diabetic association as well as peer acceptance and validation about their condition were helpful for better adjusting to their condition. Conclusion Finding showed type 1 diabetes is challenging for this age group. These challenges must be addressed to support adolescents in learning to manage their disease and improve health outcomes.

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Keywords

Adolescents , type 1 diabetes,lived experience

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