Background and Objective: The family plays an important role in the management of patients with Diabetes Mellitus. In this study, the authors determined the association between family function using the APGAR questionnaire with glycemic control among Type 2 diabetic patients. Association between demographic and clinical characteristics with glycemic control was also assessed. Methods: This was a cross-sectional study of 237 adults ages 18 years old and above with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus seen in Healthway clinics in Las Piñas between April 2021 to May 2021. Data from participants were obtained through a self-administered questionnaire and review of recent HbA1c results. The questionnaire contained 3 sections which included sociodemographic and clinical characteristics of the participants, their recent HbA1c result, and Family APGAR score. Multiple logistic regression analysis was done to determine the association of glycemic control with family function, demographic, and clinical factors. Results: Four variables were noted to be significantly associated with glycemic control- family function (p<0.0001), duration of being diabetic (p=0.021), diabetes regimen (p=0.013), and comorbidity status (p=0.021). Respondents with functional families as evaluated from their Family APGAR scores were 6 times more likely to have good glycemic control (OR 6.204) compared to those with dysfunctional families. Respondents with ≤10 years duration of diabetes (OR 4.051) and on both oral and insulin therapy (OR 9.639) are more likely to have good glycemic control. Respondents with comorbidities (OR 0.465) are less likely to achieve good glycemic control Conclusion Family APGAR score, duration of diabetes, type of diabetes regimen, and presence of comorbidities should be highlighted in diabetic management as they may influence glycemic control. This supports the need to include family assessment (especially family function) in the routine care of diabetic patients, and to address family issues which may hinder achievement of glycemic targets.
Glycemic Control ; Diabetes Mellitus