Impact of lockdown on self-care management among patients with type 2 Diabetes Mellitus residing in Lucknow city, India ? A cross-sectional study

Objective: To assess the effect of nationwide lockdown and its associated repercussion on the self-care management of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2D). Methods: Response from 1406 diabetic patients was collected against a 16 item questionnaire. Data was collected on diabetic self-management practices, behavioral aspects, psychological implications, drug availability and awareness towards the pandemic. Emphasis was on choices made by patients in the absence of guidance from physicians and impact of stress and blood sugar levels on other variables. The data was analyzed using Chi-square tests at P < 0.05. Results: About 27% were under stress, 14.7% and 30.8% reported a change in dietary and sleep pattern. About 83% could not consult a doctor and as a result 13% stopped taking medications. Patients with stress slept less, observed a change in dietary patterns and had uncontrolled blood sugar levels (P = 0.0001). On the contrary those without stress spent time with family and were occupied with a hobby (P = 0.0001). Those with controlled blood sugar levels exercised more and had normal sleep patterns. Fluctuation with doses was observed among those with uncontrolled blood sugar levels in the absence of physicians consultation (P = 0.001). Conclusion: Even though majority of study participants were not able to consult their physicians yet nearly 2/3rd were practicing Self-Monitoring of Blood Glucose (SMBG), more than half were exercising regularly, more than 2/3rds continued taking their medications and majority were following appropriate diet pattern. Stress management is a key factor during these times due to its association with other variables.