Date of Award

8-28-2020

Document Type

Open Access Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Medical Science (MMSc)

First Advisor

Lynn E. Fiellin, MD

Abstract

Type 1 diabetes is a metabolic disease characterized by an inability to produce insulin, leading to hyperglycemia and other serious complications. Type 1 diabetes can be managed with exogenous insulin and careful dietary monitoring. However, adolescents with type 1 diabetes often have difficulty adhering to optimal treatment regimens, resulting in poorer diabetic control than patients in any other age group. In this study, we will test the efficacy of a serious videogame for increasing adherence to effective treatment regimens. We hypothesize that this intervention will lead to a significant reduction in glycosylated hemoglobin A1c, the standard assessment of diabetic control. We will randomize patients to the videogame intervention or a control group and measure hemoglobin A1c levels before and after intervention. This study will evaluate an engaging, age-appropriate tool to allow clinicians to connect with adolescent patients with the goal of decreasing their incidence of future diabetes-related complications.

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