Endocrine Abstracts

JOINT293

Background: Blood pressure control is crucial in managing patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) to prevent cardiovascular complications. However, many patients face challenges in reaching the recommended blood pressure targets. Therapeutic adherence to antihypertensive treatments plays a key role in the effectiveness of treatment, yet it is often hindered by various barriers. This study explores the challenges faced by T2DM patients regarding adherence to antihypertensive treatments and its impact on achieving blood pressure targets.

Methods: This descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted on 80 patients with T2DM who had been under follow-up for more than six months at the Endocrinology department of Fattouma Bourguiba University Hospital in Monastir, Tunisia.

Results: Among the 80 patients, 65% were female, with a mean age of 57.9 years. Notably, 57.5% were being treated for hypertension. The mean systolic blood pressure was 140 mmHg [120-160], while the mean diastolic blood pressure was 90 mmHg [80-100]. In terms of antihypertensive therapy, 20% were on monotherapy, 17.5% on combination therapy, and 11.3% on triple therapy. However, 26.3% of patients did not achieve the recommended blood pressure targets. Therapeutic adherence was found to be influenced by several factors, which in turn impacted blood pressure control. These factors included therapeutic inertia (16.3%), which was the most prevalent issue, followed by patient negligence (2.5%) and cost-related barriers (5%). In addition, gastrointestinal intolerance (6.3%), forgetfulness (3.8%), and unavailability of the treatment (11.3%) were also identified as significant contributors.

Conclusion: Therapeutic adherence to antihypertensive treatment in T2DM patients is influenced by a variety of factors, many of which hinder the achievement of optimal blood pressure targets. Addressing these barriers is crucial for improving blood pressure control and reducing the risk of cardiovascular complications in this population.