Type 2 Diabetes in Women: Challenges and Impacts on Husbands and Children: A Qualitative Study from Sidama, Ethiopia.

Background Women living with diabetes require special attention. Given women's central role in family care and social responsibilities, the disease has wide implications for household and community well-being. Objective This study aimed to explore challenges of Type 2 diabetes and its management among women living with diabetes, and its influence on the family dynamics. Methodology This qualitative phenomenological research was conducted between November and December 2024 in Hawassa city, Sidama, Ethiopia. Focus group discussions (FGDs) were conducted in three separate groups: 11 women living with diabetes, 10 husbands, and 9 children. Key informant interviews (KIIs) were conducted individually with 9 healthcare providers selected from 3 health facilities. ATLAS.ti software was used to analyze the data and content analysis was done for interpretation. Results Four main themes emerged from the findings: (1) Awareness and knowledge (2) Education, counseling, and support, (3) Major challenges and impacts, and (4) Managing challenges and problems. The findings revealed that poor awareness and knowledge about diabetes was observed in 7 (64%) of women and 8 (88%) of their husbands, which was attributed to inadequate education and counselling. Shortages of foods suitable for people with diabetes and antidiabetic medications at public pharmacies were major challenges. A majority of women with diabetes, 7 (64%), reported difficulty adhering to the recommended dietary guidelines. Regarding family support children provided significant assistance, while spousal involvement remained limited. These factors contributed to poor diabetes control, increased complications, and family stress. Conclusions This study found unique challenges for women in managing their diabetes, which can influence family dynamics. Gender barriers and data gaps may hide women's true disease burden, calling for gender-responsive research, policy, and intervention.