Poor Glycemic Control and Its Contributing Factors Among Type 2 Diabetes Patients at Adama Hospital Medical College in East Ethiopia

Prevalence of and factors associated with suboptimal glycemic control among patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus attending public hospitals in the Greater Male' Region, Maldives: a hospital-based cross-sectional study

BACKGROUND

Suboptimal glycemic control of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) which is defined as having HbA1c greater than 7% is a major public health problem in several countries, including the Maldives. The study aimed to estimate the prevalence and determine factors associated with suboptimal glycemic control among T2DM patients.

METHODS

A hospital-based cross-sectional was applied to collect data from T2DM patients who attended public hospitals in the Greater Male' Region, Maldives where were one of the highest reports of T2DM and suboptimal glycemic control cases in the country between January to March 2023 by a validated questionnaire and anthropometric measurements. Five (5) ml blood specimens were collected to measure the glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) level. Univariable and multivariable logistic regressions were employed to determine factors associated with suboptimal glycemic control of T2DM at a significant level of α = 0.05.

RESULTS

A total of 341 participants were recruited for the study: 65.7% were female, 42.5% were aged 40-60 years, and 42.2% were married. The overall prevalence of suboptimal glycemic control was 50.7%. Ten variables were found to be associated with suboptimal glycemic control in multivariable logistic regression. Those aged 40-60 years (AOR = 3.35, 95% CI = 1.78-6.30), being single (AOR = 2.53, 95% CI = 1.21-5.30), preparation of food using more than three tablespoons of cooking oil (AOR = 2.78, 95% CI = 1.46-5.28), preparation of food with more than three tablespoons of sugar (AOR = 2.55, 95% CI = 1.31-4.93), no exercise (AOR = 2.04, 95% CI = 1.15-3.61), DM diagnosed with more than twenty years prior (AOR = 2.59, 95% CI = 1.34-4.99), obese body mass index (BMI) (AOR = 3.82, 95% CI = 1.75-8.32), high total cholesterol (AOR = 2.43, 95% CI = 1.36-4.35), high triglycerides (AOR = 3.43, 95% CI = 1.93-6.11), and high-level stress (AOR = 2.97, 95% CI = 1.48-5.93) were having a greater odds of having suboptimal glycemic control than those who did not have these characteristics.

CONCLUSION

A large proportion of T2DM patients in the Greater Male' Region fail to control their blood glucose. Effective public health interventions should be introduced, especially interventions focused on reducing cooking oil and sugar in daily cooking practices, encouraging regular exercise, and maintaining cholesterol levels, particularly for those diagnosed with diabetes mellitus for more than 20 years prior.

Prevalence and Associated Factors of Sensorineural Hearing Impairment Among Patients with T2DM in Amhara Region, Northwest Ethiopia, 2022: A Multi-Centered Cross-Sectional Study

Background

Generally, people with type 2 diabetes mellitus in various countries experience a significant rate of sensorineural hearing impairment. Nonetheless, there is scant evidence of sensorineural hearing impairment among type 2 diabetes mellitus patients in Northwest Ethiopian. Therefore, the objective of this study was to evaluate the occurrence rate and contributing factors of sensorineural hearing impairment in type 2 diabetics at comprehensive and specialized referral hospitals in Northwest Ethiopia.

Methods

A facility-based cross-sectional study design was carried out from May 3, 2022, to June 14, 2022, on 846 study participants in Ethiopia, with a response rate of 99.65%. The research subjects were chosen by simple random sampling techniques. Data was gathered by using audiometric measurements and structured interview-administered questionnaires and then entered into EPI data version 4.6. Finally, it was exported to STATA 14 for analysis. Binary logistic regression, chi-square test, and odds ratio were done to verify the assumptions and degree of association. Ultimately, factors exhibiting a p-value < 0.05 with a 95% CI were regarded as significant predictors of hearing impairment.

Results

The magnitude of sensorineural hearing impairment in this investigation was 50.49% (95% CI: 45.67%, 55.26%). Factors significantly associated with sensorineural hearing impairment were age (AOR=1.10, 95% CI: 1.07, 1.14), hyperlipidemia (AOR=2.86, 95% CI: 1.05, 7.82), duration of diabetes (AOR=2.26, 95% CI: 1.26, 4.06), hypertension (AOR=1.94, 95% CI: 1.02, 3.69) and regular physical exercise (AOR=0.25, 95% CI: 0.09, 0.68).

Conclusions and Recommendations

In this study, relatively high rates of sensorineural hearing impairment were observed. Stakeholders should establish routine hearing screening, and participants will advise to incorporate regular physical exercise into their routines.

Independent Correlates of Glycemic Control among Adults with Diabetes in South Africa

BACKGROUND

Globally, the prevalence of diabetes is increasing, especially in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), including those in the sub-Saharan African region. However, the independent socioeconomic correlates of glycemic control as measured by hemoglobin A1C have yet to be identified. Therefore, the aim of this analysis was to understand the independent correlates of glycemic control in South Africa.

METHODS

Data from the 2016 South Africa Demographic and Health Survey on adults with diabetes were used for this analysis. The dependent variable, glycemic control, was defined using hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c). Independent variables included: age, gender, ethnicity, marital status, region, urban/rural residence, ability to read, education, insurance, wealth, occupation, and employment in the last year. Analysis of variance was used to test for differences in mean HbA1c for each category of all independent variables, and a fully adjusted linear regression model was used to identify independent correlates of glycemic control (HbA1c).

RESULTS

Among the 772 people included in this analysis, there were significant differences in mean HbA1c by age (p < 0.001), ethnicity (p < 0.001), place of residence (p = 0.024), wealth index (p = 0.001), and employment in the last year (p = 0.008). Independent correlates of HbA1c included age, ethnicity, and wealth index.

CONCLUSIONS

This study used data from a large diverse population with a high prevalence of diabetes in sub-Saharan Africa and provides new evidence on the correlates of glycemic control and potential targets for interventions designed to lower HbA1c and improve diabetes-related health outcomes of adults in South Africa.

Determinants of poor glycemic control among type 2 diabetes in Ethiopia: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Introduction

Prior primary studies have examined the prevalence and factors associated with glycaemic control among patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus, but studies with evidence-based synthesis of the primary data remained unknown. Hence, we aimed to determine the prevalence of poor glycemic control and identify determinants of poor glycemic control in patients with type 2 diabetes in Ethiopia.

Methods

We performed searches in the online databases of PubMed, Google Scholar, Scopus, Science Direct, and the Cochrane Library. Microsoft Excel was used to extract data, and STATA statistical software (v. 16) was used for analysis. Publication bias was explored by forest plots, Begg's rank test, and Egger's regression test. To check for heterogeneity, I2 was computed. Subgroup analysis was conducted based on region and publication year. In addition, the pooled odds ratio for associated factors was calculated.

Results

Out of 1,045 studies assessed, 23 studies were included fulfilling our inclusion criteria. In all, 6,643 individuals were enrolled in the study. It was estimated that 61.11% of type 2 diabetes patients had poor glycemic control (95% CI, 57.14-65.19). The subgroup analysis by study region and publication year revealed that the highest prevalence was observed in the Addis Ababa region (68.57%) and studies published before 2019 (61.76%), respectively. Poor glycemic control was associated with older age > 50 years (AOR = 2.12; 95% CI: 1.27-2.97), not attending formal education (AOR = 3.60; 95% CI: 2.75, 4.46), having diabetes for longer duration (10 years; AOR = 2.57; 95% CI: 1.65-3.49), having comorbidity (AOR = 2.43; 95% CI: 2.05-2.80), and low adherence to diabetes management (AOR = 3.67; 95% CI: 2.41-4.92).

Conclusion

Our findings indicate a high prevalence of poor glycemic control among people with type 2 diabetes in Ethiopia. Being older, not attending formal education, having a longer duration of diabetes, having comorbidity, and having low adherence to diabetes management were all associated. Therefore, we recommend health organizations implement measures to monitor and control patients' blood glucose levels. Patient education and training of healthcare professionals could serve as a short-term strategy to achieve adequate glycemic control.

Systematic review registration

PROSPERO, identifier CRD42022349792, https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?ID=CRD42022349792.

Frequency and correlates of poor glycemic control in patients with type 2 diabetes at Jimma Medical Centre, Ethiopia: a cross-sectional study

Introduction

the majority of studies in Ethiopia determine the prevalence of glycemic control employed by fasting blood sugar (FBS), which is impacted by a variety of factors. Hence, the purpose of this study was to assess the status of glycemic control using HbA1c and its correlates in patients with type 2 diabetes in Southwest Ethiopia.

Methods

a cross-sectional study was employed among 124 T2 diabetes mellitus (DM) patients at Jimma Medical Center (JMC), Southwest Ethiopia. HbA1c and FBS were estimated using the Cobas 6000 analyzer. The body mass index (BMI) and waist-to-hip ratio were calculated as the standard formula. Data were analyzed by SPSS version 25. Logistic regression analysis was employed to identify independent risk factors associated with poor glycemic control of DM patients.

Results

males comprised 63.7% (n=79) of the total respondents. The mean age of aOR: 2.21, 95% CI 1.13, 4.34; p = 0.01f participants was 51.84 ± 11.6 years; 60.5% (n=75) of T2 DM patients were in poor glycemic control (HbA1c ≥ 7%). In multivariate logistic regression analysis, BMI of ≥ 30, (aOR: 2.21, 95% CI 1.13, 4.34) increased waist-to-hip ratio (aOR: 1.63, 95% CI 0.82, 2.18), high systolic blood pressure (aOR: 1.52, 95% CI 1.11, 6.23), high FBS (aOR: 1.61, 95% CI 1.00, 4.12), and longer duration of DM (aOR: 1.23, 95% CI 0.87, 1.88) were associated with poor glycemic control.

Conclusion

the level of poor glycemic control in the study population is high. Obesity and/or overweight, central obesity, systolic hypertension, and fasting blood sugar levels were all associated with poor glycemic control in T2 DM patients.

Prevalence and associated factors of overweight and obesity among persons with type 2 diabetes in Africa: a systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Type 2 diabetes and obesity are serious public health concerns globally and a growing burden in Africa. Both conditions have serious repercussions on health when they co-occur, yet the extent of their co-occurrence in Africa remains unknown. Therefore, this review aimed to identify the prevalence and associated factors of overweight and obesity among persons with type 2 diabetes in Africa.

METHOD

A systematic search was conducted on PubMed, MEDLINE, Embase, African Index Medicus (AIM), and African Journals Online (AJOL) for observational studies that reported the prevalence of overweight and/or obesity among type 2 diabetes patients in Africa. The prevalence data from individual studies were aggregated through a random-effects meta-analysis. The I² statistic was used to evaluate between-studies heterogeneity, while subgroup analysis and mixed-effects meta-regression were performed to identify sources of heterogeneity. We assessed publication bias using funnel plots and Egger's test. This review adhered to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) guidelines.

RESULTS

Of 1753 records retrieved, 80 articles were eligible for this review, with 74 cross-sectional studies included in the meta-analysis. The pooled prevalence of overweight and obesity was 35.6% and 25.6% respectively, while the overall prevalence of both overweight and obesity was 61.4%. Also, the pooled prevalence of both overweight and obesity across the five geographical areas in Africa ranged from 56.9% in East Africa to 88.5% in Southern Africa. Nineteen factors were significantly associated with overweight and obesity among patients with type 2 diabetes.

CONCLUSION

The high prevalence of overweight and obesity among patients with type 2 diabetes is a significant public health concern that transcends geographical boundaries within Africa. The findings from this review highlight the need for innovative weight management interventions that are tailored to the cultural context of the African setting.KEY MESSAGESThere was a high prevalence of overweight and obesity among the type 2 diabetes patients.Nineteen factors were identified to be significantly associated with overweight and obesity among type 2 diabetes patients.Only 12 out of the 80 included studies primarily focused on the prevalence of overweight and/or obesity which reflects a dearth of interest in this topic.

Medication Adherence and Contributing Factors Among Type 2 Diabetes Patients at Adama Hospital Medical College in Eastern Ethiopia

Introduction

Good glycemic control and preventing early complications are the ultimate targets of diabetes management, which depends on patients' adherence to regimens. Even though highly potent and effective medications have been developed and manufactured with astonishing advancement over the past few decades, excellent glycemic control has remained elusive.

Objective

This study aimed to assess the magnitude and factors associated with medication adherence among type 2 diabetes (T2D) patients on follow-up at Adama Hospital Medical College (AHMC) in East Ethiopia.

Methods

A hospital-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 245 T2D patients on follow-up at AHMC from March 1 to March 30, 2020. Medication adherence reporting scale-5 (MARS-5) was utilized to collect information regarding patients' medication adherence. The data were entered and analyzed using SPSS (Statistical Package for Social Sciences) version 21. The level of significance was declared at a p-value of  < .05.

Results

Of the 245 respondents, the proportion of respondents who adhere to diabetes medication was 29.4%, 95% CI [confidence interval] (23.7%-35.1%). After adjusting for khat chewing and adherence to blood glucose testing as confounding factors, being married (AOR [adjusted odds ratio]  =  3.43, 95%CI [1.27-4.86]), government employee (AOR  =  3.75, 95%CI [2.12-7.37]), no alcohol drinking (AOR  =  2.25, 95%CI [1.32-3.45]), absence of comorbidity (AOR  =  1.49, 95%CI [1.16-4.32]), and having diabetes health education at health institution (AOR  =  3.43, 95%CI [1.27-4.86]) were the factors associated with good medication adherence.

Conclusion

The proportion of T2D patients who adhere to medication in the study area was remarkably low. The study also found that being married, government employee, no alcohol drinking, absence of comorbidity, and having diabetes health education at a health institution were the factors associated with good medication adherence. Therefore, imparting health education on the importance of diabetes medication adherence by health professionals at each follow-up visit should be considered. Besides, awareness creation programs regarding diabetes medication adherence should be considered using mass media (radio and television).

Short-term effect of polyethylene glycol loxenatide on weight loss in overweight or obese patients with type 2 diabetes: An open-label, parallel-arm, randomized, metformin-controlled trial

OBJECTIVE

Polyethylene glycol loxenatide (PEG-Loxe) is a novel, once-weekly glucagon-like peptide 1 receptor agonist that is approved in doses of 0.1 mg and 0.2 mg for the treatment of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). However, no clinical trials have been designed to determine the effect of 0.3 mg PEG-Loxe on weight loss in overweight or obese patients with T2DM. This trial aimed to evaluate the short-term effect of 0.3 mg PEG-Loxe, injected subcutaneously once weekly, for weight management in overweight or obese patients with T2DM.

METHODS

This 16-week, open-label, parallel-arm, randomized, metformin-controlled trial was conducted at Shandong Provincial Hospital in Shandong, China. Patients with T2DM, who were overweight or obese (body mass index ≥ 25.0 kg/m²) and had been treated with lifestyle interventions or a combination with oral antidiabetic drug monotherapy were randomized (2:1) to receive 0.3 mg PEG-Loxe or 1500 mg metformin. The primary endpoint was a change in body weight from baseline to week 16.

RESULTS

Overall, 156 patients were randomized and exposed to treatment. Weight loss was 7.52 kg (8.37%) with PEG-Loxe and 2.96 kg (3.00%) with metformin, with a between-group difference of 4.55 kg (95% CI, 3.43 to 5.67) (P < 0.001). A significantly higher proportion of patients lost ≥5% (61.5% vs. 25.0%) or 10% (26.9% vs. 5.8%) body weight in the PEG-Loxe group than in the metformin group (P < 0.01). Additionally, PEG-Loxe resulted in marked improvements in several cardiovascular risk factors compared to metformin, including body mass index, waist circumference, visceral fat area, blood pressure, and lipid profile. PEG-Loxe and metformin displayed almost equal potency for glycemic control. The incidence of adverse events was 46.2% (48/104) and 44.2% (23/52) in the PEG-Loxe and metformin groups, respectively.

CONCLUSION

In overweight or obese patients with T2DM, a once-weekly subcutaneous administration of PEG-Loxe for 16 weeks, in addition to lifestyle interventions or oral antidiabetic drug therapy, resulted in significantly greater weight loss compared to metformin. Additional trials are necessary to establish whether these effects can be maintained in the long term.

CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION

www.chictr.org.cn, identifier ChiCTR2200057800.

Determinants of poor glycemic control among type 2 diabetes mellitus patients at University of Gondar Comprehensive Specialized Hospital, Northwest Ethiopia: Unmatched case-control study

BACKGROUND

Poor glycemic control is one of the most determinant factors for type 2 diabetes-related morbidity and mortality. The proportion of type 2 diabetes mellitus patients with poor glycemic control remains high. Yet evidence on factors contributing to poor glycemic control remains scarce. The aim of this study is to identify determinants of poor glycemic control among type 2 diabetes mellitus patients at a diabetes mellitus clinic in University of Gondar Comprehensive Specialized Hospital, Northwest Ethiopia Determinants of Poor Glycemic Control among Type 2 Diabetes mellitus Patients at University of Gondar Comprehensive Specialized Hospital, Northwest Ethiopia: Unmatched Case-Control Study.

METHODS

A hospital-based case-control study was conducted from June to September 2020. Using convenience sampling techniques, a total of 90 cases and 90 controls with type 2 diabetes were recruited. The data were entered into Epidata version 4.6.0.2 and analyzed by Stata version 14. A multivariable logistic regression analysis was performed to assess the association between independent variables and glycemic control. Both 95% CI and p-value<0.05 were used to determine the level and significance, respectively.

RESULTS

The mean age ( ± standard deviations) for the cases and controls were 57.55± 10.42 and 61.03± 8.93% respectively. The determinants of poor glycemic control were age (Adjusted odd ratio (AOR)= 0.08; 95% CI= 0.02-0.33), inadequate physical exercise (AOR = 5.05; 95% CI = 1.99-11.98), presence of comorbidities (AOR = 5.50; 95% CI = 2.06-14.66), non-adherence to anti-diabetes medications (AOR= 2.76; 95% CI= 1.19-6.40), persistent proteinuria (AOR=4.95; 95% CI=1.83-13.36) and high-density lipoprotein less than 40 mg/dl (AOR=3.08; 95% CI= 1.30-7.31).

CONCLUSIONS

Age less than 65 years, inadequate physical exercise, presence of comorbidities, non-adherence to anti-diabetes medications, persistent proteinuria, and high-density lipoprotein less than 40 mg/dl were the determinants of poor glycemic control. Therefore, targeted educational and behavioral modification programs on adequate exercise and medication adherence should be routinely practiced. Furthermore, early guideline-based screening and treatment of comorbidities and complications is required to effectively manage diabetes mellitus.

Prevalence of Glycemic Control and Factors Associated With Poor Glycemic Control: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

The primary method for preventing health and health-related problems in diabetic people is glycemic control. Numerous studies have documented the importance of glycemic control and the factors that influence it. However, the results are dispersed. This study sought to identify the prevalence of poor glycemic control and associated factors in Ethiopia. Findings will be crucial to reduce the burden of poor glycemic control. Comprehensive search was performed from databases: PubMed, Global Health, CINAHL, IRIS, and FSTA. Gray literature sources were also explored. This document was prepared based on the PRISMA flowchart. The protocol is registered in PROSPERO (ID: CRD42022296583). STATA software was used for data analyses and I2 test with Cochrane Q statistics, and forest plot were used to verify heterogeneity. When the I2 value was higher than 50% and the p-value was 0.05, heterogeneity was deemed significant. To confirm publication bias, a funnel plot with an Egger's regression test was performed. The factors related to poor glycemic control were reported using pooled odds ratios (POR) and a 95% confidence interval. In this study, 46 papers totaling 15 457 people were used to calculate the pooled estimates. It was determined that 32.6% (95% CI: 28.3, 36.9) and 61.92% (95% CI: 57.92, 65.92) of the subjects, respectively, had good and poor glycemic control. Being male protected against poor glycemic control, while poor diet adherence, lack of exercise, poor adherence to anti-diabetic medications, and smoking increased the likelihood of poor glycemic control. Lack of formal education, no family history of diabetes, lack of glucometer for blood glucose monitoring, comorbidity, being overweight and prolonged length of stay with diabetes all contributed to poor glycemic control. Ethiopia had a fairly high rate of poor glycemic control. The main determinants are lifestyle factors. Therefore, it is important to focus on behavioral interventions.

Physical activity can improve diabetes patients' glucose control; A systematic review and meta-analysis

Background

Glycemic control is vital to patient care, and it is still the most important treatment goal for reducing organ damage and other complications associated with diabetes. Physical activity is one of the factors that affects glycemic management. Therefore, the aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to find, evaluate, and synthesize the best available information on the link between physical exercise and glycemic control in Ethiopian diabetes patients.

Methods

Pubmed, Science Direct, Google Scholar and African Journals Online were the databases searched. In addition, gray literature were explored. All papers chosen for inclusion in the review underwent a thorough critical appraisal utilizing the Joanna Briggs Institute's standardized critical appraisal instruments (JBI critical appraisal checklist-2017). For statistical analysis and descriptive synthesis, quantitative articles were combined. The Odds ratio and their 95% confidence intervals were generated. Papers that were of excellent quality but lacked the main outcome (physical activity) for meta-analysis were subjected to descriptive synthesis.

Results

The finding of this meta-analysis showed diabetes patients who were physically active had controlled their blood glucose levels by 2.4 times compared to their counter (Odds ratio = 2.40, 95% Confidence Interval = 1.57,3.69). The duration of disease was found to be the most commonly reported predictor for poor glycemic control followed by dietary habits, patients' sex and age.

Conclusion

Physical activity, which is a simple and inexpensive therapy for diabetes patients, can help them control their blood glucose levels. Patients with diabetes who have had it for a long time should be aware of the need of regular physical activity in maintaining blood glucose control.

Hypoglycemia prevention practice and associated factors among diabetes mellitus patients in Ethiopia: Systematic review and meta-analyssis

BACKGROUND

Hypoglycemia is an urgent, life-threatening condition that requires prompt recognition and treatment for diabetes mellitus patients to prevent organ and brain damage. Hypoglycemia is one of the most important complications of diabetes mellitus patients around the globe. Hypoglycemia may increase vascular events and even death, in addition to other possible detrimental effects. In spite of the absence of other risk factors, patients receiving intensive insulin therapy are more likely to experience hypoglycemia. To reduce the risk of hypoglycemia and calculate the combined prevalence of hypoglycemia prevention practices among diabetes mellitus patients, recognition of hypoglycemia is critical.

OBJECTIVE

The main aim of this review was to evaluate the available data on Ethiopian diabetes mellitus patients' practices for preventing hypoglycemia and related factors.

METHODS AND MATERIALS

This review was searched using PubMed, the Cochrane Library, Google, Google Scholar, and the Web of Sciences. Microsoft Excel was used to extract the data. All statistical analyses were done using STATA Version 14 software with a random-effects model. The funnel plot and heterogeneity of the studies were checked. Subgroup analysis was done with the study area and authors' names.

RESULTS

In this systematic review, 12 studies totaling 3,639 participants were included. The estimated overall practice for preventing hypoglycemia among diabetic patients in Ethiopia were 48.33% (95% CI (28.21%, 68.46%, I2 = 99.7%, p ≤ 0.001). According to the subgroup analysis based on region, the highest estimated prevalence of the prevention practice of hypoglycemia among diabetes patients in Addis Ababa was 90%, followed by SNNRP at 76.18% and in the Amhara region at 68.31% respectively. The least prevalent was observed in the Oromia region 6.10%. In this meta-analysis, diagnoses with type II diabetes (AOR = 2.53, 95%CI: 1.05, 4.04), duration (AOR = 5.49, 95%CI:3.27,7.70), taking insulin for a long time(AOR = 4.31,95%CI:2.60,6.02), having good prevention knowledge (AOR = 2.89, 95%CI: 1.15,4.23), and occupation (AOR = 4.17, 95%CI: 2.20, 6.15) were significantly associated with hypoglycemia prevention practice.

CONCLUSIONS

This systematic review revealed that diabetic patients in Ethiopia had poor hypoglycemia prevention practices. Being an employee, taking insulin for a long time, having a good prevention practice, and having a type of diabetes mellitus were strongly correlated with practicing hypoglycemia prevention. This review implied the subsequent need for educational interventions for an individualized patient.

Glycaemic control among type 2 diabetes patients in sub-Saharan Africa from 2012 to 2022: a systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

There is an increased burden of diabetes globally including in sub-Saharan Africa. The literature shows that glycaemic control among type 2 diabetes patients is poor in most countries in sub-Saharan Africa. Understanding the factors influencing glycaemic control in this region is therefore important to develop interventions to optimize glycaemic control. We carried out a systematic review to determine the prevalence and factors associated with glycaemic control in sub-Saharan Africa to inform the development of a glycaemic control framework in the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

METHODS

We searched five databases (African Index Medicus, Africa-Wide Information, Global Health, PubMed, and Web of Science) using the following search terms: type-2 diabetes, glycaemic control, and sub-Saharan Africa. Only peer-reviewed articles from January 2012 to May 2022 were eligible for this review. Two reviewers, independently, selected articles, assessed their methodological quality using Joanna Briggs checklists, and extracted data. A meta-analysis was performed to estimate the prevalence of glycaemic control. Factors associated with glycaemic control were presented as a narrative synthesis due to heterogeneity as assessed by the I².

RESULTS

A total of 74 studies, involving 21,133 participants were included in the review. The pooled prevalence of good glycaemic control was 30% (95% CI:27.6-32.9). The glycaemic control prevalence ranged from 10-60%. Younger and older age, gender, lower income, absence of health insurance, low level of education, place of residence, family history of diabetes, longer duration of diabetes, pill burden, treatment regimen, side effects, use of statins or antihypertensives, alcohol consumption, smoking, presence of comorbidities/complications, and poor management were associated with poor glycaemic control. On the other hand, positive perceived family support, adequate coping strategies, high diabetes health literacy, dietary adherence, exercise practice, attendance to follow-up, and medication adherence were associated with good glycaemic control.

CONCLUSION

Suboptimal glycaemic control is pervasive among patients with type-2 diabetes in sub-Saharan Africa and poses a significant public health challenge. While urgent interventions are required to optimize glycaemic control in this region, these should consider sociodemographic, lifestyle, clinical, and treatment-related factors. This systematic review and meta-analysis protocol is registered in PROSPERO under CRD 42021237941.

Poor glycemic control and associated factors among pediatric diabetes mellitus patients in northwest Ethiopia, 2020: facility-based cross sectional retrospective study design

Diabetes mellitus is a global public health problem. Glycemic control is a major public health problem. Diabetes results from elevated levels of glycaemia such as increased glucose and glycated hemoglobin, and controlling glycaemia is an integral component of the management of diabetes. Glycemic control in children is particularly difficult to achieve. Identifying determinants of poor glycemic control is important for early modification of diabetic related end organ damages. This study was aimed to assess the status of glycemic control and associated factors among pediatric diabetes mellitus patients in northwest Ethiopia. Facility-based cross sectional retrospective cohort study design was used and this study was conducted from September, 2015 to February, 2018. Simple random sampling was used to select 389 samples. Data were collected using an extraction checklist. Data were entered into Epi-data − 4.6, and analyzed using Stata-16. Finally, multivariable binary logistic regression was done. Poor glycemic control was more common among pediatric patients 39.3% (95% CI 34.6, 44.3). Treatment discontinuation (AOR 2.42, 95% CI 1.25, 4.69), age (AOR 1.15, 95% CI 1.03, 1.28) and treatment dose (AOR 0.96, 95 CI 0.92, 0.99) were significantly associated with poor glycemic control. Prevalence of poor glycemic control was high. Patient’s age, history of treatment discontinuation and dose of treatment were the significant contributing factors to poor glycemic control. These need to be addressed to attain the objective of adequate glycemic control.

Correlates of Glycemic Control Among Patients With Type 2 Diabetes in Eastern Ethiopia: A Hospital-Based Cross-Sectional Study

Introduction

Even though optimal blood glucose control reduces the risk of diabetes-related complications, many patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D) fail to achieve it for a variety of reasons. In the study area, there was a paucity of evidence regarding correlates of glycemic control. Therefore, this study aimed to find out the correlates of glycemic control among patients with T2D in Eastern Ethiopia.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted among 879 adult patients with T2D on follow-up at two public hospitals in Harar. Data were collected through interviews, physical measurements, and record reviews. The level of glycemic control was determined from three consecutive fasting plasma glucose (FPG) measurements. A mean value of FPG measurements falling in the normal range (80-130 mg/dl) was considered as optimal glycemic control; otherwise, a mean FPG level that is below or above the normal range (<80 mg/dl or >130 mg/dl) was defined as suboptimal glycemic control. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize the data, while a linear regression model was used to find out the correlates of glycemic control. A beta coefficient and a 95% CI reported associations. The statistical significance was declared at a p-value ≤0.05.

Results

The mean age of the patients with T2D was 52.7 ( ± 13.3) years. The mean FPG level was 172 ± 56 mg/dl. Suboptimal glycemic control was found in 76% (95% CI: 73.41, 79.04) of patients with T2D. In a multivariable linear regression, khat chewing (β = 6.12; 95% CI: 1.55, 8.69), triglycerides (β = 0.56; 95% CI: 0.41.48, 0.65), comorbidity (β = 5.29; 95% CI: 1.39, 9.13), and poor level of self-care practices (β = 5.43; 95% CI: 1.41, 6.46) showed a significant correlation with glycemic control.

Conclusions

This study found that about three-fourths of patients with T2D had suboptimal glycemic control. Khat chewing, comorbidity, and poor level of self-care practices were independently correlated with glycemic control. Thus, suppressing glycemic levels through appropriate treatment and strict diabetes self-care practices including avoidance of Khat chewing is a useful approach to attaining glycemic target that subsequently reduces cardiovascular risks.

Glycemic control and its associated factors in type 2 diabetes patients at Felege Hiwot and Debre Markos Referral Hospitals

Poor glycemic control is a main public health problem among type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) patients and a significant cause of the development of diabetic complications. This study aimed to assess the glycemic control status and its associated factors among type 2 diabetes patients in Felege-Hiwot and Debre Markos Referral Hospitals. A retrospective cohort study was conducted at Felege-Hiwot and Debre Markos Referral Hospitals from December 2014 to December 2015. We have reviewed the chart of these patients until January 2020. Type 2 diabetic patients on follow-up at Felege-Hiwot and Debre Markos Referral Hospitals who fulfilled the inclusion criteria of the study were included. The primary outcome was the level of blood glucose during the study period. Good glycemic control was defined as patients whose average fasting blood glucose measurement for three consecutive visits was between 70 and 130 mg/dL. A generalized linear mixed autoregressive order one model was used to identify the determinants of glycemic control. A total of 191 patients with 1740 observations were included in the study. The overall prevalence of good glycemic control was 58.4% (95% CI: 57.159.7%). The factors associated with good glycemic control at 95% confidence level adjusted odds ratio were being residing in rural (CI: 0.454, 0.614), negative proteinuria (CI: 1.211, 1.546), diastolic blood pressure < 90 (CI: 1.101, 1.522), systolic blood pressure < 140 (CI: 1.352, 1.895), serum creatinine (CI: 0.415, 0.660), duration per visit (CI: 0.913, 0.987), duration since diagnosis (CI: 0.985, 0.998), weight ≥ 78 kg (CI: 0.603, 0.881). Age 38–50, 51–59 and 60–66 years (CI: 1.267, 1.776), (CI: 1.057, 1.476) and (CI: 1.004, 1.403), respectively. The overall prevalence of poor glycemic control was high at Debre Markos and Felege Hiwot Referral Hospital. Living in a rural area, older age (≥ 67 years), positive proteinuria, higher weight (≥ 78 kg), higher serum creatinine levels, higher duration per visit, higher time duration of T2DM since diagnosis, and developing hypertension (SBP ≥ 140, DBP ≥ 90) were the predictors of lower good glycemic control achievements of T2DM patients. In response to this finding, an aggressive intervention that targets improving glycemic control is required.

Predictors of blood glucose change and microvascular complications of type 2 diabetes mellitus patients in Felege Hiwot and Debre Markos referral hospital, North West Ethiopia

BACKGROUND

Microvascular complications lead to disability, dependency, and accelerated morbidity and mortality. This study aimed to identify predictors of blood glucose change and time to microvascular complications among patients with type 2 diabetes.

METHODS

A retrospective cohort study was conducted among type 2 diabetes mellitus patients enrolled between December 2014 and December 2015 at Felege Hiwot and Debre Markos Referral Hospital. A total of 318 T2DM patients were included in the study. Joint modelling of longitudinal and survival analysis was employed to identify predictors of Blood Glucose Change and Microvascular Complications in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus Patients.

RESULTS

The prevalence of microvascular complications in Type 2 diabetes patients was 26.3%, 95%confidence interval(CI):(21.5, 31.1). Of which, half of the patients developed a microvascular complication after 30 months from the onset of the follow-up. The significant predictors of developing microvascular complication were positive proteinurea (adjusted hazard ratio (AHR) = 1.418, 95%CI: 1.080, 1.861), Serum creatinine (AHR = 3.704, 95%CI: 1.992, 6.887), Weight (AHR = 1.058, 95%CI: 1.023, 1.094), and log fasting blood glucose(log(FBS))(AHR = 1.013, 95%CI: 1.010, 1.015). The predictors of fasting blood glucose progression were higher baseline FBS(est(estimate) = 0.002,95%CI:0.0018, 0.0022), Systolic blood pressure (SBP) (est = 0.003, 95%CI: 0.002, 0.004), diastolic blood pressure (DBP) (est = 0.002, 95%CI: 0.0002, 0.004), and age (est = 0.003, 95%CI: 0.001, 0.004).

CONCLUSION

The progression of the fasting blood glucose level for rural patients was faster than for urban patients. Patients having higher baseline FBS, previous hypertension history, higher SBP, higher DBP, older age, and fewer visits to the hospital have a relatively more progressive change in blood sugar levels. Patients having higher triglyceride levels, positive proteinuria, higher fasting blood sugar, higher weight, and a lesser number of hospital visits have a higher risk of developing a complication. In response to this finding, an aggressive intervention that targets to prevent microvascular complications is required.

Psychological Health and Diabetes Self-Management among Patients with Type 2 Diabetes during COVID-19 in the Southwest of Saudi Arabia

Background and objectives: The prevalence of type 2 diabetes in Saudi Arabia is high and rising steeply. However, the management of type 2 diabetic patients has largely employed a medical approach and ignored the self-care management approach. This observation has even been obscured further by the COVID-19 pandemic, which has affected the psychological health of these patients. This study aimed to understand the effects of psychological health and DSM on type 2 diabetic patients in the Jazan region during COVID-19. Materials and methods: An analytical cross-sectional study was employed in this study. Participants were type 2 diabetic patients from the diabetic center at Jazan, Saudi Arabia. The Arabic-translated version of the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9) and Generalized Anxiety Disorder Scale (GAD-7) were used to collect data. Data were analyzed using SPSS software. Results: Depression and anxiety were higher in females compared to males and were more reported by participants from urban compared to rural settings. Smoking and Khat chewing were inappropriate diabetic self-care management practices while exercising was appropriate. A negative correlation was observed between depression vs. health care utilization, and depression vs. diabetic self-care management. Anxiety results also showed similar findings to that of depression. Additionally, depression and anxiety were easily predicted by urban residence, and diabetic self-care management was predicted by exercise. Conclusions: Adequate self-care behavior in patients with type 2 diabetes is needed. Medical professionals should ensure improved efforts to accurately ascertain how an individual can implement the recommended lifestyle changes and facilitate self-care education.

Platelet-Derived Biomaterials Exert Chondroprotective and Chondroregenerative Effects on Diabetes Mellitus-Induced Intervertebral Disc Degeneration

Complications of diabetes mellitus (DM) range from acute to chronic conditions, leading to multiorgan disorders such as nephropathy, retinopathy, and neuropathy. However, little is known about the influence of DM on intervertebral disc degeneration (IVDD). Moreover, traditional surgical outcomes in DM patients have been found poor, and to date, no definitive alternative treatment exists for DM-induced IVDD. Recently, among various novel approaches in regenerative medicine, the concentrated platelet-derived biomaterials (PDB), which is comprised of transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1), platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF), etc., have been reported as safe, biocompatible, and efficacious alternatives for various disorders. Therefore, we initially investigated the correlations between DM and IVDD, through establishing in vitro and in vivo DM models, and further evaluated the therapeutic effects of PDB in this comorbid pathology. In vitro model was established by culturing immortalized human nucleus pulposus cells (ihNPs) in high-glucose medium, whereas in vivo DM model was developed by administering streptozotocin, nicotinamide and high-fat diet to the mice. Our results revealed that DM deteriorates both ihNPs and IVD tissues, by elevating reactive oxygen species (ROS)-induced oxidative stress, inhibiting chondrogenic markers and disc height. Contrarily, PDB ameliorated IVDD by restoring cellular growth, chondrogenic markers and disc height, possibly through suppressing ROS levels. These data imply that PDB may serve as a potential chondroprotective and chondroregenerative candidate for DM-induced IVDD.