Diabetes Distress: Identifying Prevalence and Associated Factors in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus Patients in Western India

BACKGROUND: Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) poses a significant health burden globally, with India accounting for a large proportion of cases. Beyond physical complications, diabetes distress (DD)-the emotional and psychological strain associated with diabetes management-is increasingly recognized as a critical factor affecting patient outcomes. However, data on the prevalence and determinants of DD in Western India remain limited. MATERIALS AND METHODS: -tests, and logistic regression to identify factors associated with DD. RESULTS: The prevalence of DD was 70.2%, with 31.6% experiencing moderate distress and 38.6% experiencing high distress. Emotional burden was the most prevalent distress domain, followed by regimen-related, interpersonal, and physician-related distress. Factors significantly associated with lower DD included higher education, good family support, regular physical activity, and diabetes duration over 10 years. Conversely, poor glycemic control, insulin therapy, hypoglycemic episodes, and the presence of diabetic complications were linked to higher DD. CONCLUSION: DD is highly prevalent among T2DM patients in Western India and is influenced by both clinical and psychosocial factors. Incorporating routine psychosocial screening and patient-centered interventions into diabetes care is essential to address this underrecognized burden and improve overall disease management.