Burden of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus Among Outpatients at University of Calabar Teaching Hospital

Background: Type 2 diabetes mellitus is an escalating non-communicable disease with significant implications for family medicine practice across Nigeria. Its burden at tertiary outpatient settings in the South South geopolitical zone requires systematic evaluation. This study determines the burden and management patterns of type 2 diabetes mellitus among adult outpatients at the University of Calabar Teaching Hospital. Methods: A retrospective review of outpatient medical records spanning four years was conducted. Data extracted included patient demographics, glycated haemoglobin levels, comorbidities, and prescribed management protocols. Descriptive statistics were computed using Microsoft Excel and SPSS version 26. Results: Type 2 diabetes mellitus accounted for a substantial proportion of chronic disease consultations. Poorly controlled glycaemia was observed in the majority of reviewed cases. Hypertension and dyslipidaemia emerged as the most common comorbidities. Polypharmacy was identified as a recurring challenge in patient management. Conclusion: The high burden of poorly controlled type 2 diabetes at this tertiary centre highlights deficiencies in chronic disease management within the Nigerian health system. A structured family medicine-led chronic care model with regular follow-up protocols is recommended to improve patient outcomes. Keywords: type 2 diabetes, outpatient, Calabar, chronic disease, glycaemic control