Living with type 2 diabetes: stress and daily life challenges among adults in the Ashanti Region, Ghana

Diabetes distress drives treatment non-adherence and poor quality of life among Ghanaian adults with type 2 diabetes. Terrain, occupational, and Akan cultural stressors in high-burden peri-urban communities remain underexplored.

This study examined lived experiences of stress, sociocultural barriers, and impacts on daily quality of life among adults with type 2 diabetes across agrarian (Mampong Ashanti) and mining (Obuasi) communities in Ghana’s Ashanti Region.

We conducted a descriptive qualitative study with purposive sampling of 92 adults (30–45 and > 45 years) via 16 FGDs (6–10/group) and 12 IDIs with health workers (6/district) in two districts. Bilingual guides explored stress triggers, coping, taboos, and WHOQOL domains (Nov-Dec 2025). NVivo 14 content analysis included triangulation, member checking, and interrater reliability (≥ 85).

Five themes emerged with ≥ 85% source convergence across 92 patients and 12 providers: medication poverty, transport barriers, occupational conflicts, fears of complications, and family-related stigma. Medication poverty was reported across all focus groups, while transport barriers were particularly prominent among participants in Mampong. Occupational conflicts were uniquely emphasized by miners in Obuasi. Older adults frequently expressed fears of complications, whereas younger participants highlighted experiences of stigma within family and social contexts. Additionally, Akan cultural taboos were described as restricting shrine access, church participation, and communal feasts during hyperglycaemic episodes.

Diabetes distress in the Ashanti Region is multifactorial, influenced by geography, occupation, generational differences, and cultural norms. Interventions should integrate psychosocial screening, medication affordability, CHPS satellite clinics, culturally sensitive peer support, and engagement with traditional healers to improve adherence and quality of life.