Glycemic and Cardiovascular Risk Control among Patients with Type 2 Diabetes: A Saudi Tertiary Care Hospital Experience

Abstract

Abstract Introduction: Data on concomitant control of both glycemia and cardiovascular risk factors among patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D) are very limited in Saudi Arabia. The aim of this study was to assess the degree of achieving glycemic control and concomitant control of cardiovascular risk factors at a primary care setting. Methods: Between February and March 2017, we retrospectively reviewed the charts and laboratory records of adult patients with T2D who received primary care services at Family Medicine clinics at King Fahad Medical City for at least a year. Outcome goals were based on 2016 American Diabetic Association (ADA) standards of diabetic care. Results: A total of 268 patients were included in the study. The mean age was 55.0 ± 10.7 years and 60% of the patients were women. Patients who achieved ADA-recommended diabetic care goals were 43.7% for glycemic control, 46.7% for blood pressure, 87.9% for total cholesterol, 52.7% for low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, 44.7% for high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, 70.8% for triglycerides, 9.4% for diet control, 1.9% for practicing exercises, 98.1% for receiving health education, and finally 38.8% for the recommended number of glycated hemoglobin testing. In addition to glycemic control, concomitant control of blood pressure, blood lipids, and both blood pressure/blood lipids were 21.3%, 9.4%, and 4.9%, respectively. In multivariate analysis, glycemic control was independently associated with the type of diabetic medications, diet control, and smoking status. Conclusion: The concomitant control of multiple diabetic care goals is alarmingly low. Further research is required to better understand the responsible system barriers and strategies to improve.