Glycemic control and its predictors among ambulatory type 2 diabetic patients attending the diabetic clinic of Hawassa University Comprehensive Specialized Hospital, Ethiopia

Abstract

Background: Glycemic control remains the major focus in the management of type 2 diabetes mellitus. Poor glycemic control constitutes a major public health problem and a risk factor for the development of acute and chronic diabetes complications. This study aimed to assess glycemic control and its predictors among adult diabetic patients attending Hawassa Comprehensive Specialized Hospital (HUCSH), south Ethiopia.

Methods: A hospital- based cross-sectional study was conducted among 185 type 2 diabetes patients attending the diabetic clinic at HUCHS from June 1, 2021 to August 31, 2021. A systematic sampling technique was used to select patients identified based on clinical diagnosis. The data was collected via a structured questionnaire first, followed by a review of the patients' medical records. Descriptive statistics and logistic regression analyses were carried out. Logistic regression analysis identified predictors of glycemic control based on variables with a p-value below 0.05.

Results: The prevalence of poor blood glucose control among adult ambulatory type 2 diabetes patients were 70% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 63% - 76%). The median of 3-months fasting blood sugar (FBS) was 149mg/dl (IQR =88, ranging from 70 to 349 mg/dl. Factors associated with good glycemic control were adequate physical activates   (adjusted odds ratio (AOR) = 14.26, 95% CI = 3.31–61.47) and treatment with metformin   anti-diabetic medication (AOR = 8.20, 95% CI = 1.97–34.04).

Conclusion: Glycemic control status of patients with type 2 diabetes was generally poor. Participants who had adequate physical activities and anti-diabetic treatment with metformin had significantly higher odds of good glycemic control. Educational strategies should focus on optimizing glycemic control approaches that lead to better overall health and reduced risk of complications associated with poorly managed diabetes.