Treatment burden and perception of glucose-lowering therapy among Egyptian patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus

Introduction Managing type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) imposes significant burdens on patients, including financial, psychological, and social challenges. This study aimed to investigate the treatment burden and perceptions of glucose-lowering therapy among patients with T2DM. Patients and methods This prospective cross-sectional study used a structured interview questionnaire with three sections. The first section collected sociodemographic data and medical history. The second section assessed patients’ perceptions, beliefs, attitudes, burden, and knowledge about diabetes treatment. The third section recorded physicians’ instructions on disease management, treatment options, and metabolic control. Results The study included 200 patients with T2DM. Most believed their medications effectively controlled diabetes and prevented complications, though 28.0% feared hypoglycemia and 43.0% considered it unavoidable. While 60.5% rejected natural remedies, 47.0% were unsure about insulin’s effects on kidneys. The majority (76.0%) trusted their treatment, but 60.0% found taking medication inconvenient, and 49.0% struggled with costs, though 57.0% felt it did not impact their social life. Additionally, 42.0% reported difficulty measuring blood glucose at home, and 30.5% believed that occasional use of medications was sufficient. Most participants (82.5%) recognized that diabetes treatment is lifelong and requires lifestyle changes. Nearly all (95.0%) received an explanation of their disease, but only 60.0% discussed treatment options with their doctors. Conclusion The study found that most patients trust their medications and recognize diabetes treatment as lifelong. Some patients held false beliefs about stopping medication, diet, and exercise. Despite receiving physician explanations, over 60% struggled with adherence, and more than 40% reported financial burden. Over 40% had difficulty monitoring blood glucose, and nearly a third believed occasional medication was adequate for control. The study concludes that patient education, close follow-up, patient feedback, and securing patient medication supplies are crucial factors in diabetes management.