The Impact of Attitudes on Medication Adherence in Type 1 and Type 2 Diabetes in Serbia

Differences in Treatment Approach

Abstract

Introduction: Managing diabetes requires significant lifestyle changes and medication adherence. It has been shown that varying attitudes toward diabetes treatment can significantly impact self-care and health outcomes. This study investigated attitudes toward diabetes treatment among Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes patients in Serbia and its impact on treatment adherence.

Method: An online survey was distributed via social media groups for diabetics in Serbia (June-August 2023), measuring self-care behaviors, treatment adherence attitudes, and patient-reported HbA1c levels.

Results: Overall, participants showed positive attitudes towards medication for diabetes treatment. However, Type 2 patients were more likely to believe that feeling well justifies stopping medication. A weak positive correlation was found between HbA1c levels and the belief that stopping medications leads to complications. Self-care activities were weakly linked to the belief that family involvement helps with medication adherence.

Conclusion: These findings highlight the importance of addressing misconceptions about diabetes treatment, particularly among Type 2 patients. Open communication between patients and healthcare providers, along with family involvement, could be crucial for improving adherence and health outcomes.