DIABETES

Management

Pump therapy may once have been considered to impede on ones’ self-esteem but however it has since been noted that wearing external devices to manage diabetes is not an issue. Pump therapy is noted to actually increase self-esteem because of better glucose control. Diabetic patients feel empowered because they have more freedom and flexibility with intensive therapy regardless, of wearing an external device. “Intensive therapy significantly reduced the risk of development and progression of retinopathy, nephropathy, and neuropathy compared with conventional therapy” (Diabetes Control and Complications Trial Research Group, 2001, p. 1712). Similarly, Boland, Grey, Oesterle, Fredrickson & Tamborlane note pump therapy may result in the “reduction of retinopathy of as much as 42%” (1999, p. 82). Furthermore, this study also indicates “improvements in quality of life, depression, and self-efficacy” with intensive therapy suggesting a link between better management, self-care and increased self-esteem (1999, p. 84). This method of insulin administration is a diabetic’s choice, which ultimately contributes to feelings of control.