Implementation of effective transition from pediatric to adult diabetes care: epidemiological and clinical characteristics—a pioneering experience in North Africa

Aims Type 1 diabetes is increasing in children leading more T1D young adults to adult healthcare settings. This change is experienced as a tear and results in a disengagement from specialist services. This study reports on an implementation of an effective and pioneering program of transition in North Africa. Methods A total of 65 teenagers with T1D were recruited for a structured program of transition. They attend transitional meetings involving both pediatric and adult team and were, when ready, welcomed in specialized consultations for adolescents with a special « passport ». Here we study their characteristics before and after structured transition and the benefit of this program. Results 9 transition meetings took place (September 2012–December 2017). Mean age was 16.5 years. Mean age at onset of T1D was 7.5 years with average pediatric follow-up of 9 years.72% of young adults felt satisfied. After the transition meeting, 74% of patients wished to join directly adult unit. They were followed there for 28.4 ± 16.2 months. The glycaemic control improved significantly with a decrease in HbA1C of 0.93 ± 1.69% the first year of follow-up and the number of young adults achieving a HbA1C