Endocrine Abstracts

JOINT292

Background: Diabetes management is a multifaceted challenge influenced by treatment patterns, adherence to therapy, and patient-specific factors. Achieving optimal glycemic control is essential to reducing the risk of microvascular and macrovascular complications, yet many patients fail to meet recommended targets. Understanding the interplay between treatment patterns, adherence barriers, and their impact on glycemic control can provide valuable insights into improving diabetes care and outcomes.

Methods: This was a descriptive cross-sectional study conducted on 80 patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) patients who had been followed at the endocrinology outpatient clinic of Fattouma Bourguiba University Hospital in Monastir, Tunisia, for over six months.

Results: Among the 80 patients studied, 65% were female, with a mean age of 57.9 years. The average duration of diabetes was 12.83 years. Diabetes was complicated in 63.8% of cases, and 51.3% of patients were not meeting therapeutic glycemic targets. The mean HbA1c was 8.91% ± 2.08. Microvascular complications were present in 57% of patients, and 23% were at secondary prevention. Adherence to antidiabetic treatment was influenced by several factors affecting glycemic control. These factors included hypoglycemia (10%), therapeutic inertia (2.5%), negligence (3.8%), and financial issues (3.8%). Additionally, digestive intolerance (12.5%), visual impairment (2.7%), and treatment unavailability (2.3%) further hindered patients’ ability to follow their prescribed regimen. Moreover, forgetfulness (15%) and medication errors (1.5%) were also significant barriers.

Conclusion: Achieving glycemic control in patients with T2DM remains a significant challenge. Future strategies should focus on enhancing patient education, providing better access to medications, and addressing factors that hinder adherence.