Comprehension of Long-Term Medications in Patient with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: A Kap Study

OBJECTIVES The study aimed to assess the comprehension of long-term medications in patients with Type 2 diabetes mellitus. METHODOLOGY A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted in Khyber Teaching Hospital Peshawar, Pakistan, a region with potentially low literacy rates that could affect health outcomes. After acquiring approval from the Institutional Ethical Review Board, the study utilized an appropriately designed and validated questionnaire to collect data from 305 willing participants. The questionnaire assessed demographic information, comorbid conditions, and comprehension of long-term medications. RESULTSThe mean age of the patients was 58.52 ± 10.3 years, with a mean HbA1c of 9.15 ± 2.1%. Regarding T2DM treatment, 55.1% used oral anti-diabetic agents, 34.4% used insulin, and 10.2% used both. The complications were diabetic retinopathy (40.7%), chronic kidney disease (28.9%), diabetic foot ulcers (24.9%), cerebrovascular disease (16.7%), and cardiovascular disease (16.6%). Over 50% had T2DM for more than five years. Regarding affordability and access to healthcare, 8.2% couldn't afford medications, 44.9% occasionally missed medicines due to cost, and 74.4% had easy access to healthcare. Comorbidities included hypertension (47.5%) and dyslipidemia (12.8%). CONCLUSION Medication comprehension is crucial for T2DM patients’ health outcomes. Tailored interventions can improve glycemic control and reduce complications risk.