Diabetes distress and associated factors among adults with type 2 diabetes in Sweden - a cross-sectional study.

Abstract

To explore the occurrence of diabetes distress and its associations with diabetes self-management, sociodemographic factors, treatment regimen and late complications in individuals with type 2 diabetes in Sweden. A cross-sectional study was conducted among 193 adults with type 2 diabetes between 2021 and 2023. Data were collected through questionnaires and linked to the Swedish National Diabetes Registry. Diabetes distress was assessed using the Diabetes Distress Scale (DDS-17), and self-management was measured with the Diabetes Self-Management Questionnaire (DSMQ). Linear regression analyses were performed with DDS scores as the outcome variable. Moderate or high levels of diabetes distress were reported by 47.6% of participants, with regimen-related distress being the most prevalent subtype. Higher levels of diabetes distress were significantly associated with poorer diabetes self-management, particularly regarding dietary control, physical activity, and healthcare use. Having a partner was associated with lower regimen-related distress. No significant associations were observed between diabetes distress and treatment regimen or diabetes-related complications. Diabetes distress appears to be high among individuals with type 2 diabetes in Sweden and is closely linked to self-management. Clinical indicators, such as treatment regimens or diabetes complications alone, cannot reliably identify individuals experiencing distress. These findings underscore the need for systematic screening.