Adherence to antidiabetic drugs and associated factors among patients with diabetes type 2 in Dar es salaam, Tanzania

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