Abstract:
Introduction:
Diabetes is the chronic disease that requires long term medical attention to limit the
development of complications. Low cost strategies such as lifestyle modifications, increasing
physical activity and effective drug use have been shown to reduce the impact of diabetes and
associated complications(l). Despite the compelling evidence about the effectiveness of
medications, adherence to treatment has been recognized to be a major problem in patients
with chronic illnesses. In Tanzania, no studies have been done on the extent of antidiabetic
drug adherence and factors affecting drug adherence, information on this area will enhance
effective interventional strategies to improve diabetes care and reduce costs associated with
preventable morbidity and mortality.
Objective:
To determine extent of adherence to antidiabetic drugs and associated factors among patients
with diabetes type 2 in Muhimbili ational Hospital, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
Methodology:
A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted at the Diabetic clinic of Muhimbili National
Hospital from 14th May 2009 to 31st December 2009. A structured questionnaire was used to
get patient information. Additionally patient's files/folders were also used to obtain the
information. Patients' adherence to antidiabetic treatment was assessed through patient sel [-
reporting modality.
Results:
A total of 216 diabetes type 2 patients were interviewed during the study period. Out of these,
144(66.7%) were females and 72(33.3%) were males, 157(72.7%) of patients were either
overweight or obese. Adherence to antidiabetic drugs was found to be 60.2% and 71.2% at one
week and three months recall respectively. Good adherence to antidiabetic treatment was
observed in patients who were below 40 years and those above 60 years (p< 0.05); also
addition of extra medications for chronic conditions other than diabetes had positive impact on
extent of antidiabetic drug adherence at one week analysis. Religion, education, duration of
diabetes, and number of antidiabetic drugs were not significantly associated with antidiabetic
