Implication of findings from international studies on hypoglycemia for management of diabetes in insulin-treated patients in Turkey

Abstract

Recent estimates indicate that diabetes occurs in 16.5% of the Turkish population, which is in keeping with the increasing global prevalence of diabetes. Following rapid economic growth, increase in life expectancy and changes in lifestyle over the past decade have resulted in the placement of a tremendous cost burden on the Turkish economy by diabetes and associated co-morbidities, representing 20% of overall spending on healthcare. Maintaining good glycemic control is vital for effective diabetes management. Long-term studies have demonstrated the ability of intensive glucose-lowering strategies to prevent or delay co-morbidities associated with diabetes. However, insulin intensification is commonly associated with hypoglycemia, which is regarded as the most significant barrier to attaining and maintaining good glycemic control. Patients are often unaware of the potential negative impact of hypoglycemia on their long-term health, as well as on daily functions. In addition, hypoglycemia and its associated symptoms or co-morbidities greatly influence adherence and dosing behavior, patients’ quality of life (QoL), and significantly affect economic productivity. The aim of this study is to review the impact of hypoglycemia in patients with diabetes, focusing on the implications of findings from international and Turkish studies for the management of hypoglycemia in Turkish patients.