Medication Adherence and Diabetes Self-Care Activities Among Patients With Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus

Background: The prevalence of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is increasing at an alarming rate in developing countries. The accompanying complications of T2DM can be reduced by maintaining a good adherence to medication and self-care activities. Objectives: To evaluate medication adherence and self-care behaviors among patients with T2DM. Methods: A total of 497 subjects with T2DM were recruited from three hospitals and a government clinic in the state of Selangor, Malaysia. Previously validated scales were used to measure medication adherence (Morisky Medication Adherence Scale) and diabetes self-care activities (Summary of Diabetes Self-Care Activities). Pearson correlation coefficient was used to investigate the relationship between the risk factors and medication adherence. Pearson chi(2) test of association was used to test significant association. Results: The mean age of the subjects was 55.5 years. The mean Morisky Medication Adherence Scale score was 5.65 +/- 1.97, indicating a moderate adherence level to medication. Among the subjects who had low adherence level, 50.9% were Malays, followed by 34.2% Indians. The Pearson chi(2) test of association indicated a significant association (P = 0.000) between ethnicity and medication adherence. The subjects had better self-care behaviors in their general diet (mean 5.04 +/- 1.88) and poor self-care behaviors in blood sugar testing (mean 2.13 +/- 2.34). Conclusions: The Malaysians had a moderate medication adherence level, whereas they were nonadherent to blood glucose testing. Emphasis on self-care activities and medication adherence is relevant to improve outcomes in the management of T2DM.