Factors associated with microvascular complications in patients with type 2 diabetes in Mueang District, Phitsanulok Province

To identify factors associated with microvascular complications among patients with type 2 diabetes (T2DM) in Mueang District, Phitsanulok Province, Thailand. A hospital-based case-control study was conducted. A total of 390 patients were included, comprising 130 cases with physician-diagnosed microvascular complications and 260 controls without complications. Data were obtained from medical records and structured interviews covering age, duration of diabetes, antihyperglycemic medication use, glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c), blood pressure, dietary behavior, and perceived stress. Univariable and multivariable logistic regression analyses were performed to estimate odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs). After adjustment, duration of diabetes ≥ 7 years was associated with increased odds of microvascular complications (adjusted OR [AOR] = 3.05; 95% CI: 1.52–6.15). Patients not receiving metformin (AOR = 108.02; 95% CI: 21.92-532.25) and those not receiving glipizide (AOR = 2.83; 95% CI: 1.59–5.06) had significantly higher odds. Elevated blood pressure ≥ 140/90 mmHg (AOR = 2.55; 95% CI: 1.40–4.65) and high perceived stress (AOR = 2.18; 95% CI: 1.01–4.74) were independently associated. Age > 60 years showed an inverse association (AOR = 0.20; 95% CI: 0.11–0.37). HbA1c level and dietary behavior were not significant after adjustment. These findings suggest that sustained pharmacological treatment, blood pressure control, and psychosocial stress management are associated with the risk of microvascular complication among patients with T2DM.