Uncontrolled glycemia and PTSD in diabetic patients living in high conflict zones: A cross-sectional study

Abstract

AbstractBackgroundLocal conflicts such as those occurring in Palestinian camps in Lebanon have led to detrimental effects on the physical and psychological aspects of the people living in these regions. PTSD and uncontrolled glycemia are expected to be the consequences of these events.AimTo determine the impact of the Ein El Helwe events on blood glycemic levels and the possibility of developing post-traumatic stress disorders.DesignA cross-sectional questionnaire with self-administered questionnaires.MethodsParticipants were identified from the community of South Lebanon in the area surrounding, or inside, the Ein El Helwe Camp during the time of the events. The participants completed an electronic questionnaire which included sociodemographic data, diabetes condition and the DSM-IV symptoms of PTSD and its level. The Scale is a validated scale that had previously been translated to Arabic.ResultsA total of 234 participants were included in the final analysis of the study with almost 30% having uncontrolled glycemia. The mean age of the study participants was 53.49+13.09 years with more female than male participants and more living around rather than inside the camp. Glycemic control was associated with gender, educational level, living in or outside the camp and the body mass index. Multivariate analysis confirmed the impact of educational level, living area and PTSD on the glycemic control. The relationship between glycemic control and PTSD was based on some of the latter’s symptoms.ConclusionThe study highlighted the impact of conflicts and wars on the development of uncontrolled glycemia among participants living in and around Ein El Helwe Camp. Multiple factors contributed to the findings including sociodemographic, lifestyle factors and cultural aspects which should further be analysed in future studies. Additionally, glycemia levels should be monitored for more reliable findings in future studies.