Factors Associated with Non-Adherence to Recommended Lifestyle Modification among Young Adults and Older Adults Diagnosed with type 2 Diabetes Mellitus

Abstract

Background: Diabetes occurs either when the pancreas does not produce enough insulin or when the body cannot effectively use the insulin it produces. The prevalence of diabetes is growing faster among not only the older people but also among the young generation. Diabetes patients has tendency for not following the rules and there are different factors for non-adherence.

Method: A cross sectional study among 250 (125 young adults and 125 older adults) participants diagnosed with type 2 diabetes mellitus was conducted from October 2017 to March 2018. Semi structured questionnaire was used to assess the level of compliance and the factors which are associated to non-adherence. Data was analyzed using SPSS and STATA software.

Results: Among the total participants, 35.6% were complaint to exercise, 43.2% were compliant to diet and 55.2% were compliant to treatment. No significant difference was found between the level of compliance among young adults and older adults. Unwillingness, work, lack of importance is common factor for non-adherence. Attending Diabetes education class and have a good knowledge over diabetes have a positive influence on compliance level.

Conclusion: More than average of the study population have uncontrolled glucose level and do not follow the rules. Intervention program is needed to promote adherence to recommendation for better health outcomes.