Outcome of Counselling on Medication Adherence, Lifestyle Modification and Glycemic Control among Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: A Quasi Experimental Study

Abstract

Background: Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a chronic metabolic disorder requiring continuous self management through appropriate medication adherence, lifestyle modification, and regular monitoring of glycemic parameters. Poor adherence to antidiabetic medications and inadequate lifestyle practices are major barriers to achieving optimal glycemic control. The objective was to evaluate the outcome of counselling on medication adherence, lifestyle modification, and glycemic control among patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus.

Methods: A hospital-based quasi-experimental pre-test and post-test study was conducted among 36 patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus. Medication adherence was assessed using the 8-item Morisky Medication Adherence Scale (MMAS-8), lifestyle practices were evaluated using a structured questionnaire, and glycemic control was assessed through fasting blood glucose (FBS), postprandial blood glucose (PPBS), and glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c).

Results: Among 36 participants, the mean age was 52.12 ± 10.12 years. Following counselling, medication adherence significantly improved, with mean MMAS-8 scores increasing from 4.47 before intervention to 6.56 after intervention (Z = -4.838, p < 0.001). The proportion of participants with low adherence decreased from 97.2% before counselling to 8.3% after counselling. Overall lifestyle modification scores significantly improved from a median score of 26 (17–35) to 33 (25–39) (Z = -5.174, p < 0.001). Significant improvements were observed in dietary practices and tobacco/alcohol-related behaviors. Glycemic parameters also improved significantly, with reductions in mean FBS from 172.64 mg/dL to 141.97 mg/dL, PPBS from 265.83 mg/dL to 221.75 mg/dL, and HbA1c from 8.19% to 6.53% (p < 0.001).

Conclusion: Patient counselling significantly improved medication adherence, lifestyle modification practices, and glycemic control among patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus.