Medication adherence, physical activity, and dietary habits among patients attending a diabetes clinic of a Government Hospital in Kolkata, West Bengal, India

Abstract Background: Proper medication adherence is essential for regulating blood sugar levels and preventing complications associated with diabetes. Additionally, lifestyle modifications play a crucial role in effective disease management. Objectives: This study aims to evaluate medication adherence among patients visiting the diabetes Outpatient Department (OPD) of a tertiary care government hospital in Kolkata. It also examines their physical activity patterns, dietary habits, and medication adherence factors. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional observational study was conducted among 304 diabetes patients from September 2023 to August 2024. Data collection involved face-to-face interviews, anthropometric measurements, and record reviews. Multivariable binary logistic regression was performed to identify factors associated with low medication adherence. Results: The mean medication adherence score was 8.04 ± 2.15. While 69.7% of patients demonstrated high adherence, 30.3% had low adherence. In the binary logistic regression analysis, individuals with no formal education, those with secondary-level education, and those from upper or upper-middle socioeconomic backgrounds had significantly higher adjusted odds of low medication adherence. Conclusion: A considerable proportion of diabetes OPD attendees exhibited low medication adherence. Strengthening counseling and health education initiatives is recommended to improve adherence and encourage healthier lifestyle practices.