Publication:

Diabetes distress and determinants of glycemic control among patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus- an analytical cross-sectional study in urban field practice area of a tertiary care centre in Nagpur

Background Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a global health concern with significant morbidity and mortality, particularly in India, where the prevalence is approximately 14.5% and projected to reach 80 million by 2030. Diabetes distress refers to the emotional burden and challenges of ongoing diabetes management and fear of complications. This study aimed to assess diabetes distress and identify factors influencing glycemic control among patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM).

Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted at the urban health training centre of a tertiary care hospital in Nagpur from February to June 2024. A total of 380 T2DM patients attending the outpatient department were screened using the diabetes distress screening scale (DDS). Patients identified with distress were further evaluated using the DDS-17 questionnaire to determine specific distress domains.

Results Out of 380 screened, 240 participants were enrolled (mean age: 61.04 years). Poor glycemic control (HbA1c>7%) was significantly more common in males (66.6%, p=0.0037) and in the 40-60 age group (p=0.024). Those with <7 years diabetes duration had worse control (p=0.017). Moderate to severe distress was found in 41%, mainly regimen-related and emotional (36.36% each). Significant factors associated with poor control included monotherapy, infrequent follow-ups, sedentary lifestyle, smoking, family history, and inadequate diabetes knowledge.

Conclusions Diabetes distress is prevalent among T2DM patients and is associated with poor glycemic control. Addressing distress and related factors is essential for better diabetes management outcomes.