Protocol: Developing a framework to improve glycaemic control among patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus in Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo

Abstract

In Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), between 68–86% of patients with type 2 diabetes present with poor glycaemic control leading to increased risk of complications and high cost of care. Identifying the factors driving glycaemic control is essential for better management. There is lack of data on factors associated with poor glycaemic control and targeted interventions in the DRC. This study aims to determine the factors associated with type 2 diabetes control and develop an appropriate intervention package in Kinshasa. The study will comprise of three sub-studies as follows: the first sub-study being a concurrent parallel mixed-methods cross-sectional study to determine factors driving poor glycaemic control among patients in Kinshasa. A total of 614 patients will be invited to participate in a cross-sectional study and respond to standardized questionnaires. A minimum of 20 purposively selected patients will participate in the qualitative study that will involve in-depth interviews about their perspectives on glycaemic control. In the quantitative study, multivariable logistic regression will be performed to determine factors associated with glycaemic control, after identifying the confounding factors. In the qualitative study, thematic analysis will be performed. Findings of the quantitative and qualitative studies on factors that are associated with glycaemic control will be triangulated. And allow to conduct the second sub-study, a qualitative inquiry with a minimum of 20 healthcare providers and 20 patients, selected purposively, to explore their perspectives about potential interventions to improve glycaemic control. At the last, the findings of both sub-studies will be subjected to an anonymous electronic three-round process Delphi study involving 25 stakeholders on the intervention package to develop a framework to optimise glycaemic control in Kinshasa. The implementation of the intervention package will occur after the completion of this study with expected substantial impact on the patients, healthcare providers, and health system.