Understanding Diabetes Through the Patients' Lens: A Mixed-Methods Study on Experiences and Outcomes in Urban Areas of Rajasthan, India.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to explore the diverse experiences and management strategies of individuals with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM).

METHODS

Participants diagnosed with T2DM were recruited from the Urban Primary Community Health Center, Jodhpur city, India. Quantitative data were collected, focusing on their diabetes management routines, interactions with healthcare systems, and personal and social challenges, followed by HbA1c and other vital parameters. Qualitative data included in-depth interviews. Thematic analysis was performed independently by two researchers using NVivo® software (Lumivero, Burlington, MA).

RESULTS

One hundred forty patients (with a mean age of 56.81 ± 10.70 SD years, 62.9% men and 37.1% women) were recruited for the quantitative survey. The average waist circumference was 98.40 cm (SD = 10.53). A notable percentage of individuals (39.3%) had a BMI ranging from 25 to 29.9, and the average HbA1c level was 8.90% (SD = 2.08). The qualitative data analysis identified five themes, highlighting the need for improved diabetes management and health literacy for T2DM.

CONCLUSION

The diverse experiences of individuals with T2DM emphasize the need for improved management and health literacy. Addressing personal and social challenges and optimizing healthcare interactions can enhance patient outcomes, underscoring the importance of patient-centered interventions in diabetes care.