The Influences of Glycemic Control on Cognitive Performance for Students With Type 1 Diabetes

This study examined whether varying glucose metrics prior to or during neurocognitive assessment contributed to the performance of students with type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM). Results indicated that overall glucose levels, as measured by a weekly average and HbA1c, did not relate to performance on cognitive tasks. However, longer and more recent hyperglycemic episodes 12 h preceding testing, as well as glucose levels outside the target range during testing, were significantly related to a timed attention task. In addition, longer duration and more time spent experiencing hypoglycemia significantly correlated with subsequent performance on an executive functioning task. Recommendations regarding accommodations for youth with T1DM to mitigate the potential impact of glycemic control influences on attention and executive functioning are offered.