Original ArticleFactors affecting the level of burden of caregivers of children with type 1 diabetes

AimTo analyze the correlations between factors associated with the family and child and the level of burden involved in care.BackgroundThe management of diabetes places substantial demands on families and direct caregivers.Methods112 direct caregivers of children with type 1 diabetes from 4 clinics in Poland evaluated their level of burden using the Caregiver's Burden Scale. The additional data were collected through interviews.ResultsThe highest level of burden was associated with general strain and disappointment. The level of burden correlated with the child's age and the professional status and level of education of the parents, and also with the number of glycemic tests at nighttime, the frequency of hyperglycemic episodes, and the number of hospitalizations.ConclusionsMeasuring the impact of factors influencing the level of burden in care makes it possible to develop effective programs supporting parents in providing care for children with type 1 diabetes.