Abstract

Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) is a growing public health concern globally, and its management relies heavily on secondary prevention practices to mitigate complications. This study aims to evaluate the secondary prevention practices among adult patients with T2DM at Buea Regional Hospital in the South West Region of Cameroon. The research assesses the adherence to lifestyle modifications, medication regimes, and regular monitoring of blood glucose levels, along with the challenges faced by patients in implementing these practices.

A cross-sectional study design was employed, involving 200 adult T2DM patients receiving care at Buea Regional Hospital. Data were collected through structured questionnaires, patient interviews, and medical record reviews to evaluate adherence to secondary prevention measures, including dietary practices, physical activity, medication adherence, and regular medical check-ups. The study also explored patients’ knowledge about T2DM and its complications, as well as their attitudes towards self-care practices.

The findings reveal that while 70% of the participants are aware of the importance of dietary management and regular exercise, only 40% reported consistent adherence to a healthy diet, and 35% engaged in regular physical activity. Medication adherence was relatively high, with 65% of patients taking their prescribed medications regularly. However, only 50% of the participants regularly monitored their blood glucose levels, citing financial constraints and lack of access to monitoring devices as major barriers. The study also found that patients with higher levels of education and those who received continuous counseling from healthcare providers were more likely to adhere to secondary prevention practices.

Challenges such as limited access to healthcare facilities, financial difficulties, and lack of social support were identified as significant barriers to effective secondary prevention. Furthermore, the study highlights the role of healthcare providers in reinforcing the importance of secondary prevention measures, as patients who received regular counseling and education were more likely to adhere to these practices.

The study concludes that while awareness of secondary prevention practices among T2DM patients at Buea Regional Hospital is relatively high, actual adherence to these practices remains suboptimal. To improve outcomes, the study recommends enhancing patient education, improving access to blood glucose monitoring tools, and strengthening support systems for patients. Tailored interventions that address the specific challenges faced by T2DM patients in Buea are essential to improving their adherence to secondary prevention practices and reducing the risk of complications.

Keywords

Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus, secondary prevention, adherence, lifestyle modification, medication, Buea Regional Hospital, blood glucose monitoring, patient education, healthcare access.