Theses (Master Of Pharmacy Practice)

Introduction: Diabetes is one of the main public health concerns in Malaysia as uncontrolled diabetes is closely associated with increased macro and microvascular complications as well as premature and preventable mortality. Good glycemic control remains a problem for patients despite the introduction of innovative pharmacological treatment options. Other factors may play a role in maintaining good glycemic control. Objectives: The aim of this study was to identify factors that affect the glycemic control in T2DM patients. Methodology: A cross-sectional study design was used, and the study was conducted in Johor Bahru, Johor. Patients were recruited using convenient sampling method and a total of 270 patients were included. Data was collected by face-to-face interview and knowledge were assessed using Diabetes Knowledge Test developed and used by the diabetic MTAC clinic, MOH, Malaysia. Fasting blood sugar (FBS) and glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) values were determined to assess the glycemic control. Statistical analysis was done using SPSS version 22.0. Findings are indicated in proportion with 5% significance level and 95% confidence level. Results: 47.8% of the patients achieved glycemic target and 52.2% of patients did not achieve target. Factors affecting the glycemic control significantly were level of education, monthly income, duration of diabetes, whether patients on insulin or not, correct consumption of medicines and level of knowledge. Conclusion: Majority of patients are still not well controlled in terms of their blood glucose. This study identified the modifiable factors which might help health care professionals to develop a care plan aiming to help patients achieve their glycemic target. Keywords: Glycemic control, Glycated Hb, Fasting blood glucose, Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus