INFLUENCE OF SOCIO-DEMOGRAPHIC FACTORS ON ADHERENCE OF PATIENTS WITH TYPE 2 DIABETES IN A PRIMARY HEALTHCARE SETTING IN WESTERN BOSNIA AND HERCEGOVINA

Abstract

Diabetes mellitus, including type 2 diabetes, is a global health issue with less than 50% of individuals achieving optimal glycemic control. A study at Health Center Krupa na Uni, Republic Srpska, assessed adherence in 159 adults with type 2 diabetes, during the study conducted during 2019-2020. The research used a general and specific questionnaire The Adherence in Chronic Diseases Scale. Findings showed 72.9% had moderate adherence, 16.4% had low adherence, and only 10.7% had high adherence. The female gender predicted higher adherence (p=0.048). The type of oral hypoglycemic agents (p=0.520) was not associated with adherence. Older age (p=0.316) and lower education level (p=0.182) were associated with lower adherence, but not significantly. Age over 60 years and level of education had no significant effects on adherence. Although there was no statistical significance, employed respondents (p=0.076) and those living in rural areas had a higher level of adherence (p=0.064). Some respondents took medications based on their physical needs and beliefs, indicating the need to address beliefs and behaviors influencing adherence. Poor adherence remains a significant issue, and addressing adherence barriers, particularly those related to gender, can improve health outcomes for individuals with type 2 diabetes. Ongoing research and interventions are crucial to improve adherence rates and health outcomes in individuals with type 2 diabetes.