Abstract
BACKGROUND: Patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) often experience hypoglycemia, an underappreciated consequence that has a major negative influence on treatment compliance and quality of life. OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to determine the prevalence and associated factors of hypoglycemia among patients with T2DM, with a focus on treatment types, comorbidities, and glycemic control. By providing population-specific data, the study intends to inform clinical decision-making and contribute to safer, more personalized diabetes management strategies. METHODOLOGY: This cross-sectional observational multicenter study was conducted from April 2023 to March 2024. There were 364 T2DM patients in all. Structured interviews were used to gather data, which included pertinent clinical indicators, treatment plans, self-reported hypoglycemia episodes, and demographics. Symptoms or verified blood glucose levels below 70 mg/dL were used to define hypoglycemia. SPSS version 26 (IBM Corp., Armonk, NY, US) was used for statistical analysis. RESULTS: Hypoglycemia was present in 112 patients (30.77%) overall, with 59 patients (16.20%) reporting frequent episodes and eight patients (2.19%) reporting extremely frequent occurrences. The most frequently reported symptoms were shakiness in 64 patients (17.54%), dizziness in 56 patients (15.37%), and sweating in 52 patients (14.29%). Hypoglycemia was most common among 152 patients (41.75%), followed by 98 sulfonylurea users (26.92%), and 69 metformin users (18.95%). It was more prevalent in patients with glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) > 7.5%: 159 patients (43.68%). CONCLUSION: Patients with type 2 diabetes often experience hypoglycemia, which is more common in individuals with higher HbA1c levels and is particularly common in those on insulin and sulfonylureas. To reduce the risk of hypoglycemia, careful glycemic control management is necessary.