Carlos Miranda, Pilar Rodríguez Ledo, and Isabel Egocheaga during the United in Cardiometabolic Health Day.
The study ‘Impact of Gender on Patient Experiences. Self-care in Type 2 Diabetes‘ aimed to identify gender disparities in knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors related to self-management and control of type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM2) among primary care patients. After analyzing the data, its authors state that “effective control of diabetes requires personalized support that addresses these specific gender challenges.”
Eight primary care centers located in four distinct regions of Spain participated in the study: East (Barcelona), Central (Madrid), North (Pamplona and Zumaia), and South (Vélez-Málaga and Málaga). From there, 111 diagnosed individuals with DM2 (specifically, 52 women and 59 men) were recruited, who participated in 12 group discussions at these health centers from February to June 2015. The profiles of the participants were defined based on gender, age, place of residence, type of treatment, years living with DM2, and presence or absence of cardiovascular event.
According to the main results of this study, made known and discussed within the topics addressed during the X Forum on Diabetes of the SEMG, participants were aware that diabetes is a chronic disease, with varying levels of concern regarding the diagnosis. The locus of control of the participants influenced their perception of the cause of the disease: women attributed it to stress and emotions, while men linked it to risky behaviors.
Self-care strategies in diabetes
Self-care strategies were determined by beliefs about diabetes, and both genders face challenges in implementing the recommended practices. Gender differences were also evident in caregiving roles, with men receiving more family support for dietary compliance, while women prioritized family needs over their self-care.
The participants in the cited study expressed satisfaction with the professional-patient interactions, but pointed to the need for more accessible information and specialized care, suggesting support groups for women and clear health guidelines for men. “Improving healthcare services with clear guidelines and support groups can enhance self-management outcomes for both men and women,” the authors conclude.
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The Future of Gender-Sensitive Diabetes Care: Insights and Trends
Recent findings from a study presented at the X Forum on Diabetes in Toledo highlight the crucial role of gender differences in managing type 2 diabetes (T2D). As awareness grows around the nuances of diabetes care, the future may hold several key trends aimed at addressing these disparities.
Personalized Care Strategies
The necessity for personalized support systems tailored to gender-specific challenges in diabetes management is becoming more apparent. Female patients often experience greater emotional and caregiving burdens, leading to a demand for strategies that prioritize their mental well-being. In contrast, male patients might benefit from programs that address behavioral risks, potentially combining informational seminars and practical workshops that tackle lifestyle choices.
Enhanced Patient Support Systems
As the discussion on diabetes care evolves, the creation of specialized support groups is likely to gain traction. Women could benefit from community-based forums focused on shared experiences related to diabetes care, education on emotional health, and coping mechanisms. For men, having structured educational pathways that emphasize accountability and risk management may enhance their engagement in self-care practices.
Technology Integration in Diabetes Management
The future of diabetes management is also pointing towards the integration of technology. Mobile applications tailored for gender-specific needs could provide real-time health tracking, reminders for medication, and nutritional guidance. These platforms could foster a community approach where patients encourage each other, aligning goals and sharing experiences.
Advocacy for Gender-Based Research
The call for further research into gender-based approaches to T2D management is likely to resonate stronger in the coming years. As studies uncover the nuances of how gender affects diabetes self-care and treatment, healthcare policies may adapt to integrate these findings into practice, ensuring equity in health outcomes for all genders.