High prevalence of Obesity and Suboptimal Glycemic Control Among Patients with Type 2 Diabetes in Private Clinics of Tripoli, Libya: a cross-Sectional Study
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.54361/LJMR.20.1.17Keywords:
Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus, Glycemic Control, Treatment Regimen, Obesity, Body Mass Index, Libya, Cross-Sectional Study, HbA1cAbstract
Background: Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) poses a significant public health challenge globally, with effective management being crucial to prevent long-term complications. Understanding the clinical profile and factors associated with glycemic control in specific regional settings is essential for optimizing care. Aim: The primary aim of this cross-sectional study was to describe the clinical and demographic characteristics of T2DM patients attending private outpatient clinics in Tripoli, Libya, and to determine the association between their prescribed treatment regimen and the achievement of glycemic control (HbA1c < 7%). Methods: A retrospective cross-sectional study was conducted using the medical records of 120 adult T2DM patients from a private outpatient clinic in Tripoli, Libya, between May and September 2025. Demographic data, Body Mass Index (BMI), diabetes duration, HbA1c level, and treatment regimen (Lifestyle only, Oral agents only, Insulin only, Combination therapy) were collected. The association between treatment regimen and glycemic control was assessed using the Chi-square test. Results: The cohort showed a high prevalence of excess body weight, with 83.3% of patients classified as overweight or obese. Overall, 63.3% of patients had uncontrolled diabetes (HbA1c ≥ 7%). A statistically significant association was found between the type of treatment regimen and glycemic control (p = 0.024). Patients on lifestyle-only treatment had the highest rate of control (57.1%), while those on insulin-only (22.2%) and Combination therapy (20%) had the lowest rates of control. Conclusion: This study highlights a high burden of obesity and suboptimal glycemic control among T2DM patients in this private clinical setting in Libya. The findings suggest that patients requiring more intensive therapies face greater challenges in achieving glycemic targets, underscoring the need for integrated weight management and enhanced support for adherence to complex treatment regimens.
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