PERCEPTION AND ADHERENCE OF THERAPEUTIC REGIMEN AMONG PATIENTS WITH TYPE 2 DIABETES AT THE UNIVERSITY OF BENIN TEACHING HOSPITAL, BENIN CITY

Abstract

Diabetes mellitus is a chronic metabolic disorder requiring strict adherence to therapeutic regimens for effective management and prevention of complications. This study was a descriptive cross-sectional survey designed to assess the perception and adherence of therapeutic regimens among patients with type 2 diabetes attending the University of Benin Teaching Hospital, Benin City. A convenience sampling technique was used to select 182 adult participants diagnosed with type 2 diabetes, out of which 176 properly completed questionnaires were analyzed, giving a response rate of 96.7%. Data were analyzed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 26.0, and results were presented in frequency tables, charts, and percentages. Findings revealed that most respondents were aged 60 years and above (34.7%), with more females (58%) than males (42%). The majority were married (67%) and traders constituted the largest occupational group (34.7%). The study showed that patients had a generally positive perception of their therapeutic regimens, with the highest mean score (3.4) attributed to the belief that non-adherence to medication could lead to serious health complications. Overall, 85% of respondents expressed positive perceptions. In terms of adherence, 80% of patients demonstrated high adherence, with the highest mean score (3.3) recorded for taking medications exactly as prescribed, attending scheduled medical check-ups, and refilling medications on time. Factors significantly influencing adherence included regular health education from healthcare professionals and personal motivation (mean = 3.3 each), while cultural and religious beliefs had the lowest influence (mean = 2.2). Chi-square analysis showed a significant association between perception and adherence to therapeutic regimens (χ² = 1.138, df = 1, p = 0.003). The study concluded that positive perception strongly enhances adherence to therapeutic regimens among patients with type 2 diabetes. It is recommended that healthcare providers strengthen diabetes education, counselling, and motivational strategies to sustain patients’ adherence. Keywords: Perception, Adherence, Therapeutic, Regimen, Patients, Type 2, Diabetes