The goal of a recent study was to assess the effect of lockdown or self-imposed restrictions due to the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic on glycaemic control in patients with diabetes. The study also investigated the possible determinants, for example – diet, sleep, physical activity, psychological status, and treatment adherence. 

This was a comparative analysis of the glycaemic status and metabolic parameters, lifestyle and psychological changes, and treatment adherence of 103 patients with diabetes. The study involved the collection of retrospective pre-lockdown data from clinical records and interviews.

It was found that most patients belonged to the age-range 40-60 years. The majority reported difficulty in complying with regulations of appropriate diet, physical activity, sleep, and medication schedule. Additionally, many patients reported stress and anxiety. Furthermore, deteriorations in glycaemic control and lipid profile were highly significant. Among the participants, the mean body weight increased by 6.67% at the end of the study and the difference was statistically significant. 

Therefore, pandemic-related restrictions profoundly impacted patients with diabetes, concerning their glycaemic control, metabolic status, medication adherence, and quality of life parameters. A multidisciplinary approach is warranted for managing patients with diabetes focusing on various issues, for example – dietary control, physical activity, and psychological stress, via various awareness and counseling programs, which can be accomplished with ease through the online mode.

Source: Maedica. 2022 Mar;17(1):88-96. doi: 10.26574/maedica.2022.17.1.88.