The Association Between Adherence and Controlled Blood Glucose in Diabetic Foot Ulcer Patients

Abstract

Background: A common consequence of diabetes mellitus is diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs), which, if left untreated, can lead to amputation, extended hospital stays, and even death. Compliance in blood sugar control is one of the keys to healing diabetes wounds.

Objective: This study aims to analyze the association between medication compliance in diabetic ulcer patients and clinical outcomes.

Research methods: This study used a cross-sectional design involving diabetic ulcer patients who met the inclusion and exclusion criteria in three health services in Surabaya. Patient medication adherence data using the MMAS-8 questionnaire, while blood glucose level used for the clinical outcome data. Chi-square analysis was used to examine the association between clinical outcomes and adherence level.

Results: The number of respondents obtained was 96 DFU outpatients between July and October 2024. The majority of patients had moderate (49%), low (32%) levels of compliance and achieved clinical outcomes (66%). There is a relationship between adherence to medication use and clinical outcomes (P<0.001).

Conclusion: Medication adherence is associated with the controlled blood glucose of DFU patient. To achieve the optimal clinical results, patients, pharmacists, and other healthcare professionals must collaborate to increase patient compliance.

Keywords: Diabetes; foot; hypoglycemic; insulin; wound