Biopsychosocial Factors Affecting Metabolic Control Among Female Adolescents With Type 1 Diabetes

In 2001, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) released a landmark monograph, “Diabetes and Women’s Health Across the Life Stages: A Public Health Perspective.”1 In this publication, the CDC emphasized the complex nature of diabetes, discussed public health implications, described opportunities for research, and made recommendations. To further this discussion, this review addresses the unique biological, psychological, behavioral, and sociocultural challenges faced by adolescent females with type 1 diabetes, their families, and their health care providers. The review begins with a discussion about how puberty may contribute to physical and emotional changes in adolescent girls with diabetes. For this population, important psychological and behavioral factors include stress and coping, depression, intentional health-compromising behaviors, and eating disorders; sociocultural factors include peer pressure and family interaction. Relevant research findings are provided to frame discussions, and recommendations are offered to improve care.