Lifestyle Factors Associated With Glycemic Control among Type 2 Diabetic Patients at Kapkatet Subcounty Hospital, Southrift, Kenya

Abstract

Glycemic control remains a major challenge in the management of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM), especially in resource-constrained settings such as sub-Saharan Africa. This study investigated the lifestyle factors associated with glycemic control among patients with T2DM attending the diabetic clinic at Kapkatet SubCounty Hospital in Kericho County, Kenya. A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted with a sample of 300 participants selected through systematic sampling. Data were collected using structured intervieweradministered questionnaires and the most recent HbA1c results from patient records. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 26. The results showed that only 38.8% of the participants achieved good glycemic control (HbA1c ≤7%). Significant associations were observed between glycemic control and physical activity, dietary adherence, and medication adherence (p < 0.05). However, alcohol use and smoking were not significantly associated with glycemic outcomes. The findings underscore the importance of promoting healthy lifestyles, particularly encouraging regular physical activity, dietary compliance, and consistent medication use to enhance glycemic outcomes in T2DM management. These results highlight the need for targeted behavioral interventions and patient education, particularly in rural health settings such as Kapkatet.