Glycemic Control and Family Dysfunction Among Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus Patients in the Philippines

Diabetes is seen as a global epidemic inflicting millions, mostly in developing nations and disadvantaged groups in developed nations. In the Philippines, about 3-4 million are believed to have diabetes. Worse, another 3-4 million may be at risk or already have this deadly condition but do not know it.

Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) have multiple responsibilities, including lifestyle modifications, dietary restrictions, self-monitoring of glucose levels, screening for complications, and adherence to medications. Depressive conditions, eating disorders, poor family relationships, and other psychological problems are common in patients and are associated with poor glycemic control. Studies have shown that family support has a great impact on management of diseases. In this light, this study aims to explore the relationship between family dysfunction and the glycemic control.

The study sample includes 68 patients of Angono General Hospital and Taytay Emergency Hospital with T2DM from September to November 2009. Both descriptive and inferential analyses were utilized in the study. The results show that there is an association between family function and the management of diabetes. This indicates that the family, as a source of support is an integral part in managing disease, particularly