Insulin Pump Therapy Issues Among Adults with Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus in Saudi Arabia: A Retrospective Study

Introduction Type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) is on the rise in Saudi Arabia. Management of T1DM is crucial in curbing the economic burden of this disease. Studies on insulin pump issues are scarce in the region. The present study aims to fill this gap. Methods In this single-centre, retrospective study done in King Abdulaziz Medical City (KAMC) from March 2018 to March 2019, a total of 118 known Saudi T1DM adults (34 males and 84 females) were included. Data on demographics, glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c) and CSII use were collected. Results The most common problem encountered by the patients on CSII was breaking down of the pump (30.0%), relocation of the cannula or tubing (22%) and air bubbles affecting delivery (16.1%). Eighty-one subjects (68.6%) claimed to have been admitted for DM management while on CSII. The use of CSII led to a significant reduction in HbA1c in all subjects (p < 0.001), but levels remain suboptimal. Only 53 subjects (44.9%) reported no significant problems in their CSII experience. Conclusion There is a high prevalence of T1DM adult patients experiencing device malfunctions and other issues while on CSII therapy. This may account for suboptimal improvement in the glycaemic control among T1DM Saudi patients. Issues on adherence and device malfunctions should be investigated further.