Socio-demographic, Economic and Health Profile of Diabetic Patients Attending Some Primary Care Units in the City of Bukavu, Democratic Republic of Congo
Ombeni Mahano Aladin *
Faculty of Pharmacy, Official University of Bukavu (UOB), Bukavu, DR Congo.
Ziruka Ntaboba Rachel
High Institute of Public Health, Official University of Bukavu (UOB), Bukavu, DR Congo.
Asima Katumbi Florentin
High Institute of Public Health, Official University of Bukavu (UOB), Bukavu, DR Congo.
Akonkwa Byamungu Brigitte
High Institute of Public Health, Official University of Bukavu (UOB), Bukavu, DR Congo.
Salama Matumaini Béatrice
Faculty of Pharmacy, Official University of Bukavu (UOB), Bukavu, DR Congo.
Birindwa Mulashe Patient
Faculty of Pharmacy, Official University of Bukavu (UOB), Bukavu, DR Congo.
Ahana Bagendabanga Jean
High Institute of Public Health, Official University of Bukavu (UOB), Bukavu, DR Congo.
Feza Bianga Viviane
Faculty of Medicine, Official University of Bukavu (UOB), Bukavu, DR Congo.
Mushagalusa Kasali Félicien
Faculty of Pharmacy, Official University of Bukavu (UOB), Bukavu, DR Congo.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
Introduction: Diabetes is a serious health problem; its prevalence is increasing in developing countries. This study aims to describe the socio-demographic, economic and health profile of diabetics attending the primary care units for the management of diabetes mellitus (DM).
Methods: We carried out a cross-sectional study in 2019 on 257 diabetics in seven primary care units (Maendeleo, Funu, Uzima, CBCA-Nyamugo, 8th Cepac-Buholo, Lumu and Charles-Mbogha).To collect the data, we used the survey questionnaire, medical tools and documents; anthropometric tools and statement of the prices (for drugs, laboratory exams and public transport). Results: Most of respondents were female (79.4%), aged ≥ 45 years old (90.27%), with a level of study below secondary education (63.0), without paid employment (71.1 %) with a monthly income < $ 37.5 US (59.92%). Most of them had type-2 diabetes mellitus (93.3%). With family history (48.25%) and comorbidities (hypertension and stroke). All participants were on medication (77.0% on oral glucose-lowering drugs). Once a week glycemic control was assessed in six primary care units, we noted hyperglycemia in the majority of female 68.5% (OR = 2.25; P = 0.02); aged 55 or older 54.9% (OR = 2.62; P = 0.02), not respecting the diet 45.5% (OR = 2.09; P = 0.04) and ate the family meal on a common plate 40.5% (OR = 2.32; P = 0.007). Their monthly expenses covered the assessment of fasting blood sugar, medication, and food purchases. Body Mass Index has represented the increased (31.5% with overweight) and high (23.8% with obesity) disease risk. The waist circumference represented the abdominal obesity mainly in women.
Conclusion: Diabetes is an economic and health burden for the patient, family and community. Primary care units lacked human, material and financial resources to care for diabetics.
Keywords: Profile, socio-demographic, economic, health, diabetes, care, primary unit, Bukavu.