Hands On Webinar | Preventing and Addressing Substance Use in Youth and Young Adults with Type 1 Diabetes | Recording-Preventing and Addressing Substance Use in Youth and Young Adults with Type 1 Diabetes

Video Transcription

Video Summary

The recent ADA webinar focused on addressing and preventing substance use among youth and young adults with type 1 diabetes. Moderated by Etta Cengiz, a professor of pediatrics at UCSF, the session featured Dr. Alyssa Roberts and Dr. Rachel Wasserman, both experts in pediatric endocrinology and psychology, respectively. The webinar discussed how substances, particularly alcohol and cannabis, impact diabetes management and glucose levels. Dr. Roberts highlighted the severe risk of hypoglycemia with alcohol consumption, noting that its effects can persist for up to 24 hours. She also presented data on the prevalence of alcohol and cannabis use among adolescents and young adults with type 1 diabetes, showing that usage rates were significant and similar to their peers without diabetes.<br /><br />Dr. Wasserman expanded the discussion by exploring behavioral aspects of substance use in youth, employing models like executive functioning development and behavioral willingness to analyze why adolescents might engage in risky behaviors. Her segment emphasized the importance of delaying substance initiation and reducing risky behaviors through prevention strategies. These include early identification, confidential communication, motivational interviewing, and family involvement, stressing that abstinence-only messages are generally ineffective.<br /><br />The importance of context and the identification of unique risk factors in youth with diabetes were underscored. The webinar encouraged engaging families in discussions and educating youth on the risks and safe practices associated with substance use. It also provided resources for further learning and intervention strategies, advocating for a nuanced, educational approach rather than mere prohibition.

Keywords

substance use

type 1 diabetes

youth

alcohol

cannabis

hypoglycemia

prevention strategies

behavioral aspects

family involvement

educational approach