Determinants of Glucose Control among Elderly Diabetics in Kulim

Globally, the prevalence of diabetes mellitus and the average life expectancy is on the rise. As diabetes mellitus is commonly associated with old age, it is very important to ensure  good  glucose  control  to  reduce  complications  and  improve  quality  of  life.  A cross sectional study was conducted among elderly diabetics in Kulim with the aim to determine the prevalence of glucose control and its associated factors.  Three hundred and twenty nine respondents were chosen through stratified random sampling in all the seven  health  clinics  in  Kulim.  Respondents  were  interviewed  personally  using  a structured  questionnaire.  HbA1c  level  of  6.5%  and  below  was  considered  as  good glucose control. Prevalence of good glucose control was 22.5%. Being male (Adjusted prevalence odds ratio, APOR = 1.75, 95% CI: 1.02-3.00), age of 70 years and above (APOR = 2.48, 95% CI: 1.40-4.39) and duration of diabetes less than five years (APOR =  2.10,  95%  CI:1.21-3.64  )  were  found  to  have  significant  association  with  good glucose  control.  As  a  conclusion,  this  study  showed  that  the  low  prevalence  of  good glucose control was determined by gender, age and duration of illness.