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University of Auckland researchers have found they can greatly improve the way people manage their diabetes with the use of text messages.
The Self-Management Support for Blood Glucose programme was developed by the university’s National Institute for Health Innovation and Waitemata District Health Board.
Diabetics were sent individually tailored information and support designed to motivate them to make positive changes in their lives to improve their health long-term.
A randomised trial published in the British Medical Journal found people on the programme, almost a quarter of whom were Maori, had a greater improvement in blood sugar levels compared to those in the other group that only received their usual care.
Lead author Dr Rosie Dobson says an estimated 200,000 New Zealand adults are living with the disease.
Maori and Pacific experience greater rates of diabetes and increased rates of complications.
Supporting people to effectively manage their diabetes is essential to reduce the risk of complications of the condition and maximise their quality of life, as well as reducing costs to the health system.
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