Management Status of Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus at General Hospitals in Korea: A 5-Year Follow-Up Study

Abstract

Background: This study aimed to explore the long-term management of diabetes patients in domestic general hospitals by reviewing 2013 and 2018 data on diabetes management status.Methods: Of 1,802 type 2 diabetes patients who received outpatient treatment at nine general hospitals in Korea and who participated in the 2013 study, 1,124 were enrolled in this study. General characteristics, comorbidities, complications, and management were investigated through medical records.Results: The average age of the subjects was 65.4 ± 10.6 years, the average duration of diabetes mellitus was 15.6 ± 8.0 years, and 58.2% of the subjects had a family history of diabetes. Concomitant diseases were hypertension in 63.0% and dyslipidemia in 78.8%. Diabetic retinopathy was observed in 31.5%, nephropathy in 24.6%, and neuropathy in 24.5%. The mean glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c) level was 7.4 ± 2.2% and according to Korean Diabetes Association guidelines, 20.4% of patients with diabetes achieved a HbA1c level of < 6.5%, 70.1% achieved a blood pressure of < 140/85 mm Hg, and 77.1% achieved a low density lipoprotein cholesterol level of < 100 mg/dL. The target achievement rate was 12.5% for blood sugar, blood pressure, and lipid parameters.Conclusion: In diabetes management, blood sugar control was poor compared to blood pressure and lipid control. A systematic management plan is needed to ensure proper blood sugar control.