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Management and control of patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus in Lebanon: results from the International Diabetes Management Practices Study (IDMPS)

Azar ST, Malha LP, Zantout MS, Naja M, Younes F, Sawaya MT

Le Journal medical libanais. The Lebanese medical journal, 2013

Abstract

BACKGROUND: The IDMPS is a study to identify changes in diabetes treatment practice in several developing countries. This paper focuses on diabetes management and compliance with guidelines in a Middle Eastern country like Lebanon.

METHODS: The cross-sectional data from the 2006 wave of two weeks duration on the Lebanese population along with the longitudinal data of a 9-month follow-up study were collected.

RESULTS: A large proportion of Lebanese patients were not adequately controlled or followed up. A slight proportion was managed by diet and exercise alone while most patients were on two or more oral anti-hyperglycemics. Metformin was the most common monotherapy followed by sulfonylureas. 22.6% of Lebanese patients were on insulin, most commonly basal insulin alone followed by premix insulin alone. Blood glucose self-monitoring was more frequently done by insulinized patients and was associated with better glycemic control. Glycemic control was reached in 29.6% of type 2 patients (HbA1c < 7%) with poorest outcome for patients on insulin and was more frequently achieved in patients who had more frequent monitoring of HbA1c levels.

CONCLUSION: For a proper assessment of diabetic control, maintaining adherence to international guidelines needs to be evaluated. Promoting patient education, improving physician knowledge with better implementation of guidelines is recommended.

How strong is the evidence?

Evidence Hub reads this as a cross-sectional, done in people. Its evidence level is 4 of 5 (Low · observational). Observational designs can show an association but not prove cause.

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