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Factors associated with adherence to diet and exercise among type 2 diabetes patients in Yemen

Abdullah Alhariri*, Faiz Daud & Sultan Ayesh Mohammed Saghir

Aim: Diabetes is considered a worldwide epidemic syndrome affecting a huge number of people. Most of the people with diabetes could not adapt to the established diabetic regime. This study aimed to evaluate the factors affecting adherence of diabetic patients towards recommendations of diet and exercise and to assess effect of patients' adherence on glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c). Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted during 1st May to 15th November 2016 in Hodeidah City, Yemen. Data were collected through face-to-face interview using a standardized questionnaire. Data were organized, verified and analysed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences, version 21. Results: A total of 210 participants were included in this study, of them 54.8% were males. The rate of adherence to diet and exercise was 21.0% and 15.2%, respectively. Adherence to diet was significantly higher among urban residents (P=0.012), employees (P=0.006) and those who had a diabetes for a duration ≤5 years (P=0.040). However, adherence to exercise was significantly higher among patients who were under 60 years old (P<0.020), and who were taking oral hypoglycaemic medication (P=0.001). Good glycaemic control (HbA1c<7%) was significantly associated with adherence to dietary regimen (P=0.001) and regular exercise (P=0.032). Conclusion: The rate of adherence to both diet and exercise among type-2 diabetes patients in Yemen was low, and it could be attributed to a combination of several socio-demographic and clinical factors. This poor adherence was reflected on the lack of glycaemic control among patients.