Significant HbA1c Reduction with Target-Focused Glucose Education and Patient-Led Follow-Up in Uncontrolled Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus

Authors : Rıza Altunbaş, Adnan Türkel

Pages : 326-333

View : 57 | Download : 200

Publication Date : 2025-12-31

Article Type : Research Paper

Abstract :Aim: Although most patients with diabetes (DM) own a glucose monitoring device, inadequate knowledge of fasting and postprandial target values often prevents correct interpretation of results and effective use of this technology. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of target-oriented education and a patient-responsibility-based follow-up system, combined with medical therapy, on HbA1c levels. Material and Methods: This single-arm, prospective interventional study included 84 adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and HbA1c ≥8.0%. At baseline, a questionnaire assessed participants’ knowledge of fasting and postprandial glucose targets and educational level. Participants then received standardized written and verbal education on these targets. A patient-led follow-up model was implemented, instructing patients to attend the outpatient clinic when self-measured glucose values exceeded target levels. Statistical analyses included Friedman, Wilcoxon signed-rank, and Kruskal-Wallis tests. Results: The mean age was 57.8 ± 8.4 years; 42.9% (n=36) were male. At baseline, only 10.7% correctly identified fasting and 1.2% postprandial glucose targets. Median HbA1c decreased from 9.7% (IQR 8.6-11.5) to 8.1% (IQR 7.63-9.0) at 3 months and 7.1% (IQR 6.9-7.57) at 6 months (all p<0.001). Clinic visit frequency increased significantly during the first 3 months and declined as glycemic targets were approached (p<0.001).Conclusion: Awareness of fasting and postprandial glucose targets was critically low among patients with T2DM. A minimalist, targetfocused educational strategy combined with a patient-led monitoring model achieved a clinically meaningful reduction in HbA1c levels.
Keywords : Diabetes Mellitus, Glisemik kontrol, Hasta eğitimi, Kan şekeri izlemi

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