The browser you are using is not supported by this website. All versions of Internet Explorer are no longer supported, either by us or Microsoft (read more here: https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/microsoft-365/windows/end-of-ie-support).

Please use a modern browser to fully experience our website, such as the newest versions of Edge, Chrome, Firefox or Safari etc.

Good glycaemic control: an international perspective on bridging the gap between theory and practice in type 2 diabetes

Author

Summary, in English

Background: Good glycaemic control is crucial in reducing the risk of diabetes-related complications. Despite the availability of evidence-based treatment guidelines, glycaemic control appears to remain suboptimal in most countries. Objectives: In this commentary we outline the extent to which diabetes guideline targets on HbA(1c) are being met in clinical practice and - where targets are being missed - to identify potential reasons for this shortfall. Furthermore, we discuss possible actions that may improve glycaemic control. Methods: A literature search of MEDLINE using 20 core terms was conducted to help assess the state of glycaemic control in patients with type 2 diabetes worldwide. Results: Despite clinical guidelines, evidence suggests that glycaemic control is suboptimal in most parts of the world, with average HbA(1c) values varying from 7.0% to 12.6% and thus above virtually all HbA(1c) recommendations. The potential reasons for this shortfall are numerous. However, lack of diabetes education and awareness of HbA(1c) appear to be particularly important. A number of education initiatives from around the world have been shown to improve HbA(1c) levels significantly and thus improve standards of care. Conclusions: Poor glycaemic control in patients with type 2 diabetes appears to be a worldwide problem. As the global rise in diabetes (and its complications) seems destined to affect many less affluent countries, it is essential that appropriate steps are taken to address the barriers to good glycaemic control and ultimately improve outcomes for all people with type 2 diabetes.

Publishing year

2008

Language

English

Pages

2651-2661

Publication/Series

Current Medical Research and Opinion

Volume

24

Issue

9

Document type

Journal article

Publisher

LibraPharm

Topic

  • Endocrinology and Diabetes

Keywords

  • Type 2 diabetes
  • mellitus
  • Insulin
  • HbA(1c)
  • Glycaemic control
  • Guidelines

Status

Published

Research group

  • Genomics, Diabetes and Endocrinology

ISBN/ISSN/Other

  • ISSN: 1473-4877