The Prescription Pattern, Care‐Seeking Behavior and Glycemic Status Among the Diabetic Patients in a Tertiary‐Level Hospital of Bangladesh: A Cross‐Sectional Observational Study

ABSTRACT Background and Aims The prevalence of diabetes mellitus is on the rise globally, presenting a significant challenge to healthcare systems, particularly in developing countries like Bangladesh. However, treatment modalities, care‐seeking attitudes and clinical profiles among these patients are not well explored. This descriptive cross‐sectional study examines the prescription patterns, care‐seeking behavior and glycemic status among the diabetic patients in a tertiary‐level hospital in Bangladesh. Methods A total of 231 previously diagnosed type II diabetic patients from outpatient services, comprising 129 males and 102 females, were approached using a well‐structured questionnaire. Socio‐demographic characteristics, along with physical activity, tobacco smoking, adherence to a diet chart, and consultation with pharmacists, were obtained through participants' recall. ‘Patients’ biochemical parameters, such as blood pressure and glucose level were also taken into consideration. Results The majority of respondents were in the 40‐59 age group (55.8%), with a mean age of 50.67 ± 11.9 (SD) years. On average, 4.23 ± 1.23 (mean ± SD) drugs were prescribed for the management of diabetes and its comorbidities. A moderate correlation (r = 0.546, p < 0.01) was found between the average number of drugs and patients mean age. A single antidiabetic drug was prescribed to 121 patients (52.4%), two drugs to 82 (35.5%), and three drugs to 28 patients (12.1%) only. Although antidiabetic medications were prescribed, uncontrolled glycemic control was reported in 186 patients (80.5%). A weak association was found between glycemic status and the types of antidiabetic therapy among the diabetic patients, with a chi‐square statistic of 6.10 ( p < 0.01). Mean systolic and diastolic blood pressure, and fasting and 2‐h postprandial blood glucose levels were significantly higher in aged diabetic patients ( p < 0.001). The majority of participants (211, 91.3%) followed the diet chart advised by their physicians, which was associated with better control of diabetes‐related complications (χ 2 value 3.36, p < 0.1). Conclusion Given the heavy drug burden and comorbidities, these findings support regular glycemic monitoring, timely review and adjustment of medication, adherence to diet and lifestyle counseling, and closer attention to aged diabetic patients. The insights from this research may provide valuable guidance to healthcare providers and policymakers in devising patient‐centered treatment strategies for the diabetic patients in Bangladesh.