Compliance to Recommended Prevention and Management Practices among Type 2 Diabetes Patients in Morogoro Municipality, Tanzania

Abstract

Introduction: Diabetes-related complications are the significant causes of morbidity and mortality among type 2 diabetes patients. The complications can be reduced by practicing and maintaining several preventive measures. The present study aims to assess compliance and factors associated with recommended management practices and prevention of complications among type 2 diabetes patients in selected health facilities in Morogoro Municipality, Tanzania.

Methods: A hospital-based cross-sectional study was conducted from February to May 2023 among 140 patients, including patients who were diagnosed with diabetes for at least three months prior to the study. Data were collected through face-to-face interviews using a structured questionnaire, which included patients’ characteristics and a previously validated Summary of Diabetes Self-care Activities questionnaire to assess patients' compliance with recommended practices. A multivariable regression analysis was employed to identify factors associated with compliance with recommended practices.

Results: The mean age of the respondents was 59 ±12.08 years and 65% were females. Among 140 patients, 91.4% (n=128) had poor or unsatisfactory self-care practices with an overall mean of 3.81± 2.08 days per week for diabetes management. The recommended practices with good or satisfactory performance were non-smoking, non-alcohol drinking and prescribed medication. In contrast, unsatisfactory performance was observed for self-monitoring of blood glucose with a mean of physical activity. Multiple regression analysis showed that co-morbidity (AOR 4.5; 95% CI:1.14-18.02) and being employed (AOR 4.4; 95% CI:1.25-15.44) independently predict self-care practices.

Conclusion and recommendation: Compliance with self-monitoring of blood glucose, physical exercise and dietary practices were found to be low among type 2 diabetes patients, which could increase the risk of complications. Nutritional and lifestyle counselling and the use of peer groups should be emphasized to improve compliance with recommended practices.