Survey reveals lifestyle habits among diabetes patients

WOONSOCKET, R.I. CVS/pharmacy on Monday announced results of a survey examining various aspects of disease management and lifestyle for patients with diabetes. Of 3,242 respondents with diabetes, 32% reported they have been less vigilant about daily glucose testing due to cost, and as many as 24% of respondents said that cost has led them to be less conscientious about maintaining a proper diet.

Younger diabetics between the ages of 18 and 34 years cited significantly higher neglect of daily glucose testing (42%), proper diet (40%) and medication (29%) due to cost than older age groups. Challenges to maintaining a daily testing regimen also were cited more often by African-American (37%) and Latino (36%) respondents than by Caucasian respondents (30%).

"Given recent projections from the CDC that as many as 1-in-3 American adults could have diabetes by 2050, monitoring and maintaining healthy glucose levels is critical to prevent further complications from the disease and [to] avoid even more significant healthcare costs," stated Troyen Brennan, CVS Caremark chief medical officer. "We've established a number of programs to help patients manage their diabetes and the costs associated with the disease."

The survey revealed positive news about glucose monitoring with an A1c test. As many as 54% of respondents had an A1c test every three months, and 33% received an A1c test every six months. Among the 3,117 survey respondents who received an A1c test, 62% reported their most recently tested A1c level was within the range advised by their doctor.

MinuteClinic walk-in medical clinics inside select CVS/pharmacy stores are offering complimentary A1c tests to those with diabetes, in recognition of American Diabetes Month in November. The free tests, sponsored by Bayer Diabetes Care, are available while supplies last, the company stated.