Clinical profile and analysis of adherence to self-care in patients with type 2 diabetes: a cross-sectional study, Goiânia, Goiás, Brazil, 2024

Abstract Objective To characterize the clinical profile of patients with type 2 diabetes and analyze their adherence to self-care. Methods A cross-sectional epidemiological study was conducted at a state-level center specializing in diabetes care in Goiânia, Goiás state, Brazil, between August and November 2024. The study involved administration of a sociodemographic questionnaire, investigation of health history, anthropometric assessment and administration of the Diabetes Self-Care Activities Questionnaire (DSCQ). The data are presented as absolute and relative frequencies, means and standard deviations. Associations were analyzed using multiple linear regression models, with a 95% confidence interval (95%CI) and a 5% significance level. Results The sample of 199 participants had a mean age of 64.9 (9.3) years, predominance of females (66.30%), more than 10 years since diagnosis (67.30%), and more than 80% were overweight or obese. The majority were sedentary (84.40%), non-smokers (94.50%) and non-drinkers (77.90%). Regarding diabetes complications, 45.60% reported having only one, with neuropathy being the most frequently cited (64.32%), followed by retinopathy (25.12%) and nephropathy (13.56%). The DSQC revealed low adherence to self-management, especially regarding physical activity (88.90%), following professional dietary guidelines (63.80%), avoiding fatty foods (62.30%), monitoring blood glucose (63.80%) and examining feet (64.30%). There was unsatisfactory adherence to most DSQC items. Conclusion These are individuals in their sixth decade of life, overweight or obese, diagnosed for more than 10 years and with low adherence to self-care.