The Influence of Socioeconomic Factors on Diabetes Management and Its Outcomes

Abstract

Diabetes is a growing global issue, with socioeconomic status (SES) influencing the incidence and prevalence of the condition. Adults with lower incomes are more likely to develop diabetes and experience higher rates of complications and mortality. In SES assessments, education quality is considered more important than quantity. High-income individuals are less likely to develop diabetes due to their ability to afford balanced diets and medications. Long work hours and illiteracy also contribute to the onset of diabetes. Research conducted in Bahawalpur, Pakistan, found that socioeconomic factors significantly affect diabetes patients, with poor economic status and inadequate diabetic education being more prevalent. Physical inactivity and lack of life insurance further contribute to the condition. In Bahawalpur, a cross-sectional study involving 374 participants from diverse social and economic backgrounds examined the impact of socioeconomic factors on diabetes management and outcomes across different age and gender groups. Among the participants, 60% were male and 39.39% were female, with 66.80% over the age of 50. Out of the 374 participants, 236 (63.10%) were unemployed. Additionally, 41.97% of participants had limited knowledge about diabetes. Due to poor knowledge, economic constraints, and lack of physical activity, participants experienced poor diabetes management, leading to negative outcomes.