Abstract

Per the 2016 World Health Organization (WHO) Global Report on Diabetes, the
prevalence of diabetes and associated risk factors has been on a steady rise, currently
standing at 2.7% for males and 3.0% for females. Overweight individuals make up about
18.6% of adults, while the obese account for 3.9%. This particular study conducted at
Hoima Regional Referral Hospital focused on assessing the prevalence of inadequate
glycemic control and the factors contributing to this issue among Type 2 Diabetes
Mellitus patients. Employing a descriptive, cross-sectional design utilizing quantitative
data collection and analysis methods, the study captured the opinions and perceptions
of a considerable number of Type 2 diabetic patients attending the hospital's diabetic
clinic at a specific moment, allowing for broader generalizations. The study uncovered
that poor glycemic control among Type 2 diabetic patients led to various complications,
notably cardiovascular issues (56%), diabetic neuropathy (50%), diabetic nephropathy
(33%), diabetic retinopathy (25%), and infections (21%). Specifically, cardiovascular
complications were more prevalent among patients with a family history of diabetes,
hypertension, high BMI, and those categorized as overweight. Additionally, patients over
the age of 60, highly educated individuals, married persons, and professionals exhibited
higher instances of cardiovascular complications due to poor glycemic control. The
study recommended hospital management to dedicate time for educating patients on
managing their conditions beyond medication intake, addressing factors hindering good
glycemic control. Furthermore, the study suggested strategies such as community
outreach programs and routine screening for Diabetes Mellitus among hypertensive
patients to facilitate early detection of non-communicable diseases.
Keywords: Diabetes Mellitus, Overweight, Obesity, Cardiovascular diseases, Glycemic
control.