Cognitive behavioral therapy improves long-term glycemic control in diabetic patients

In a systematic review and meta-analysis, researchers depicted that the significant effects of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) on glycemic control in diabetic patients may manifest primarily over a long-term treatment period. The objective of the investigation was to evaluate both short-term and long-term impact of CBT on glycemic control. The meta-analysis included nineteen randomized controlled trials and a total of 3,885 diabetic patients.

Additionally, subgroup analyses were performed to assess the impact of CBT on glycemic control in different diabetes types (type 1 and type 2) as well as in individual and group therapy settings. During the initial six-month period, subjects receiving CBT did not exhibit a substantial variation in HbA1c levels contrasted to those receiving the usual treatment. However, when the treatment duration exceeded six months, CBT demonstrated greater efficacy in minimizing HbA1c levels when compared to the usual treatment.

The standardized mean difference (SMD) was -0.44 (Z = 4.49) indicating a statistically significant improvement in glycemic control. Furthermore, subgroup analyses revealed a long-term effect of CBT on glycemic control for both type 1 and type 2 diabetic patients, with SMD of -0.85 (Z = 2.23) and -0.33 (Z = 4.52), respectively. Clinicians and medical staff should consider CBT as a valuable option for enhancing the glycemic control of diabetic patients who are undergoing long-term treatment. The long-term effects of CBT offer significant advantages that can contribute to improved management of diabetes.