INVESTIGATION OF NEW APPROACHES TO IMPROVE DIABETES CARE AMONG PATIENTS WITH PSYCHOSOCIAL AND SPECIAL CULTURAL NEEDS IN ASIA

Abstract

Poorly controlled diabetes is associated with multiple complications that may negatively impact on both individual patients and national health systems. Despite great advances in the pharmacotherapeutics development, the management of diabetes remains less than satisfactory worldwide. Apart from pharmacotherapy, lifestyle management such as diabetes self-management, education and support is also a fundamental aspect of diabetes care. However, these non-pharmacological factors are often under-addressed in the clinics due to limited time and expertise. This master’s thesis established two new approaches to improve diabetes care among patients with type 2 diabetes in Asia, with a special focus on patients with psychosocial and special cultural needs. The first part of the thesis examined the risk factors and quality of life of patients with high diabetes-related distress. The second part of the thesis entailed the development and implementation of a fasting algorithm specifically designed for patients who wish to observe Ramadan.