The experience of living with and managing cystic fibrosis related diabetes: a qualitative review

Abstract

Background: Improved survival rates for people with cystic fibrosis have led to increased rates of co-morbidity, of which diabetes is the most common. Cystic fibrosis related diabetes affects 19% of adolescents and up to 50% of adults, although little is known about their experiences of this co-morbidity.

Aims: To investigate the experiences of living with and managing cystic fibrosis related diabetes among adolescents and adults.

Methods: Systematic review and thematic analysis of qualitative evidence.

Results: Six studies, rated good quality, were included in the review and four main themes emerged from the data: knowledge and understanding; emotional and social impact; balancing both conditions; acceptance and adjustment. Although the main themes reflect adolescent and adult experiences, there were subtle variations in their sub-themes. Participants' overriding story was of journeying towards acceptance and integration of cystic fibrosis related diabetes into their lives. This included their unpreparedness for the likely onset of cystic fibrosis related diabetes and their struggles to balance the competing demands of living with and managing cystic fibrosis and diabetes.

Conclusions: The diagnosis of cystic fibrosis related diabetes and its incorporation into daily life is challenging for many people with cystic fibrosis. Review findings indicate opportunities for cystic fibrosis related diabetes interventions pre-diagnosis, at diagnosis, and during ongoing management, which need integrating into routine cystic fibrosis care.

Keywords: cystic fibrosis; cystic fibrosis related diabetes; healthcare interventions; life experience; qualitative review.

Figure 1.

PRISMA flow-chart.

Figure 2.

Themes and sub-themes.