Socio-demographic, Economic and Health Profile of Diabetic Patients Attending Some Primary Care Units in the City of Bukavu, Democratic Republic of Congo

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.