Health profile and medication adherence of diabetic patients in the Portuguese population

Abstract

Aims: To understand the psychological and behavioural impact of type 2 diabetes in the Portuguese Primary Care setting.

Methods: Observational, cross-sectional study of a convenience sample of portuguese people diagnosed with type 2 diabetes mellitus. The Diabetes Health Profile (DHP-18) and the Four Item Morisky Medication Adherence Scale (MMAS-4) were applied, as well as socio-demographic and disease-related questions.

Results: In a n=110 patient sample, lower education level showed a negative impact on the Psychological Distress dimension (p=0,013). In the Barriers to activity dimension, significant differences were found between different age groups (p=0,033) - a better health profile was observed in the 40-59 years group and also between gender (p=0,039) - greater impact in female subjects. Disinhibited Eating dimension wasn't associated with any of the studied variables. However, all the groups showed worse results in this domain. No associations were found between DHP and medication adherence. Worse medication adherence is more common when there is a prevailing notion of lack of control of diabetes.

Discussion and conclusion: Using DHP, a larger negative impact related to type 2 diabetes mellitus is found in those with lower educational level, female and younger (20-39 years) or older (60-79 years) subjects. Broader information strategies aimed at improving the quality of life of diabetic patients is necessary, particularly those related to nutrition.

Keywords: Behavioural impact; Diabetes Health Profile; Diabetes mellitus; Health status; Psychological impact; Quality of life.