EXPLORING PATIENT EXPERIENCES AND PERCEIVED CHALLENGES IN MANAGING ENDOCRINE DISORDERS ACROSS DIFFERENT AGE AND SOCIOECONOMIC GROUPS

Abstract

Background: Endocrine disorders such as diabetes, thyroid dysfunction, and adrenal conditions impose lifelong challenges that extend beyond medical management. Patients’ experiences are shaped by their personal, social, and economic circumstances, influencing treatment adherence and overall well-being. Despite growing evidence on clinical aspects of endocrine care, limited research has explored patient perspectives across diverse socioeconomic and age groups, particularly in South Asian contexts.

Objective: To qualitatively explore patient perspectives on treatment experiences, lifestyle adjustments, and challenges in managing endocrine disorders among different age and socioeconomic groups in Lahore, Pakistan.

Methods: A six-month qualitative study employing a phenomenological approach was conducted in tertiary and community healthcare facilities across Lahore. Twenty-six participants diagnosed with endocrine disorders for at least one year were recruited using purposive sampling. Data were collected through semi-structured, in-depth interviews and analyzed thematically using Braun and Clarke’s framework with NVivo 14 software. Ethical approval was obtained from the relevant institute.

Results: Five overarching themes with interrelated subthemes were identified: navigating treatment realities (medication adherence struggles, perceived treatment effectiveness, interaction with healthcare providers), redefining lifestyle and self-management (dietary adjustments, physical activity adaptation, self-monitoring challenges), psychosocial and emotional challenges (fear, stigma, coping mechanisms), influence of socioeconomic context (financial strain, access disparities, social support differences), and healthcare system experiences (trust in professionals, communication barriers, continuity of care). Participants described navigating illness as a complex negotiation between medical advice, economic realities, and emotional resilience.

Conclusion: The study highlights that effective endocrine disorder management requires more than medical intervention—it demands patient-centered, culturally sensitive care addressing emotional, social, and financial dimensions. Insights from this study can inform holistic and equitable endocrine care frameworks in Pakistan and similar contexts.