The effect of lifestyle practices on blood glucose levels and the development of diabetic complications in women diagnosed with type II diabetes mellitus in Guyana

Abstract

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a major health problem in Guyana especially among women. This study evaluated the effects of lifestyle habits on blood glucose control and the development of complications in T2DM female patients. A pretested questionnaire was administered to a total of 39 women between the ages of 44 to 65 years who were previously diagnosed with T2DM for a period of no less than 5 years at the West Demerara Regional Hospital Diabetic Clinic. The patients were divided into two groups, those who adhered to healthy lifestyle habits (group 1) based on body mass index (BMI) and those who did not (group 2). Information for each group was based on lifestyle practices, fasting blood glucose (FBS), random blood glucose (RBS) and diabetic complications. The results show that the mean RBS and FBS values for patients who practised “healthy lifestyle habits” were significantly (p<0.05) lower when compared to those who practised “unhealthy lifestyle habits”. A significant majority of these patients also controlled their blood glucose with the use of one medication when compared to group 2 patients who had unhealthy lifestyle habits and who also needed two or more medications to treat their diabetes. Patients in group 1 who controlled their blood glucose levels and adhered to healthy life style habits had less diabetic complications. It was concluded that patients who adapted healthy lifestyle practices had lower mean RBS and FBS levels when compared to those who did not. These patients also had lower BMI and showed a reduced risk for the development of diabetic-induced long term complications. It can be concluded that a healthy diet and regular exercise are the mainstay therapy for patients with T2DM and to achieve this, the patients must adhere to life style changes to enjoy a better quality of life.