The Impact of Attitudes on Medication Adherence in Patients with Type 1 and Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus in Serbia

Introduction. Managing diabetes mellitus requires significant lifestyle changes and medication adherence. It has been shown that varying attitudes towards diabetes treatment can significantly impact self-care and health outcomes. This study investigated attitudes toward diabetes treatment among type 1 and type 2 diabetes mellitus patients in Serbia and its impact on treatment adherence. Method. An online survey was distributed via social media groups for diabetics in Serbia (June-August 2023), measuring self-care behaviors, treatment adherence attitudes, and patient-reported HbA1c levels. Results. Overall, participants showed positive attitudes towards medications for diabetes treatment. However, type 2 patients were more likely to believe that feeling well justifies the cessation of treatment. A weak positive correlation was found between HbA1c levels and the belief that the cessation of treatment leads to complications. Self-care activities were weakly linked to the belief that family involvement helps with medication adherence. Conclusion. These findings highlight the importance of addressing misconceptions about diabetes treatment, particularly among type 2 patients. Open communication between patients and healthcare providers, along with family involvement, could be crucial for improving adherence and health outcomes.