Randomized efficacy trial of early preconception counseling for diabetic teens (READY-girls)

Diabetes Care. 2008 Jul;31(7):1327-30. doi: 10.2337/dc07-1266. Epub 2008 Apr 14.

Abstract

Objective: To develop and assess the feasibility of an early preconception counseling program for adolescents called READY-Girls (Reproductive-health Education and Awareness of Diabetes in Youth for Girls).

Research design and methods: A total of 53 adolescent females with type 1 diabetes between 16 and 19.9 years of age were randomized into groups receiving a CD-ROM, a book, or standard care (control) and given one comprehensive session. Outcomes were assessed at baseline, immediately after, and at 3 months.

Results: Teens who received the CD and those who received the book demonstrated significant (P < or = 0.05) sustained improvement (over 3 months) in knowledge, perceived benefits of both receiving preconception counseling and using effective family planning, and perceived more support with reproductive health issues.

Conclusions: Clinical feasibility of the program was demonstrated. Both the CD and the book appeared to be efficacious formats for the short term. Future studies should examine repeated boosters of a CD and a book, which are not meant to replace but rather to reinforce and supplement health professional education.

Publication types

  • Randomized Controlled Trial
  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Blood Glucose / analysis
  • Books*
  • CD-ROM*
  • Counseling*
  • Diabetes Mellitus, Type 1 / psychology*
  • Female
  • Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice
  • Humans
  • Preconception Care / methods*

Substances

  • Blood Glucose