Patients’ Perceptions and Knowledge of Diabetes and Medications: Implications for Medication Adherence and Glycemic Control in Type 2 Diabetes Patients, Northern Ethiopia

Abstract

Globally, adherence to Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) medications remains suboptimal. There are limited insights, however, on this issue in the northern region of Ethiopia. This cross-sectional study at Alamata General Hospital investigated the interplay between patients' medication beliefs, diabetes knowledge, adherence, and glycemic control. Data collection was done using structured questionnaires and chart reviews, while descriptive and inferential statistics were for the analysis. Among 305 T2DM patients, poor medication adherence was prevalent (44.6%), alongside suboptimal glycemic control (75.7%). Patients diagnosed for over a decade had an adjusted odds ratio (AOR) of 3.87 for nonadherence, while high concern about medication side effects was associated with a 20.63-fold higher nonadherence risk (AOR = 20.63). Low disease awareness increased nonadherence risk by 4.54 times (AOR = 4.54), while a strong belief in medication necessity was protective (AOR = 0.21). Poor glycemic control was associated with educational background, diabetes awareness, monthly income, and treatment modality. Urgently needed are tailored diabetes education programs in Northern Ethiopia to counteract high rates of poor medication adherence (AOR = 3.87) and glycemic control among T2DM patients. Targeted interventions, emphasizing knowledge enhancement and reinforcing positive beliefs, are essential for improving outcomes in this population.