Women with type 2 diabetes experience more emotional burden and less family support than men

The study led by IDIAPJGol researchers Anna Ramírez Morros and Anna Berenguera recommends adjusting primary care to address gender differences in disease management

Gender differences significantly influence how patients manage type 2 diabetes. According to the research conducted by the Institut d’Investigació en Atenció Primària Jordi Gol (IDIAPJGol) researchers Anna Ramírez Morros and Anna Berenguera, women are more concerned about the disease and often prioritize their family's needs over self-care. In contrast, men receive more family support, particularly regarding adherence to diet, and tend to attribute the disease to risk behaviors such as sedentary lifestyles or unhealthy diets.

The study results highlight the need for a more personalized approach in primary care to improve disease management according to gender. The research shows that while women often attribute the onset of diabetes to emotional stress situations, such as the loss of a loved one, men tend to perceive the disease as a consequence of risky behaviors. This difference in perception also influences how women and men cope with the disease: women are primarily concerned with balancing personal care with family responsibilities, whereas men emphasize the support they receive from their partners.

Qualitative Research
The study used a qualitative methodology based on discussion groups with patients from various regions of Spain. This approach enabled a deep understanding of participants' experiences and segmentation by gender, age, and type of treatment. Through thematic analysis, researchers identified eight key categories related to diabetes self-management, including the emotional impact of the diagnosis and sources of support.
The project was carried out in collaboration with eight primary care centers across Spain and involved 111 patients with type 2 diabetes. The results provide guidance for developing health policies that consider gender differences to improve care and support for people living with this widespread chronic disease.

Article Reference
Ramírez-Morros A, Berenguera A, Millaruelo L, Buil-Cosiales P, Gomez Garcia C, Cos X, Ávila Lachica L, Artola S, Millaruelo JM, Mauricio D, Franch-Nadal J. Impact of Gender on Patient Experiences of Self-Management in Type 2 Diabetes: A Qualitative Study. Patient Prefer Adherence. 2024 Sep 13;18:1885-1896. doi: 10.2147/PPA.S466931. PMID: 39290823; PMCID: PMC11407317.