Fear of Hypoglycemia among Diabetics in the Middle East: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

Abstract

Background: The Middle East and North Africa face high diabetes rates, contributing significantly to global diabetes burdens. Addressing diabetes management, including awareness, early diagnosis, and complication prevention, is a critical health priority due to its expanding burden. The psychosocial aspect of diabetes, particularly fear of hypoglycemia (FOH), affects patient outcomes by discouraging physical activity, reducing quality of life, and impacting treatment adherence and glycemic control. Evidence on FOH and its effects on diabetes management in the Middle East is limited, prompting a systematic literature review to synthesize available data.