Introduction:

Type 2 diabetes mellitus constitutes, worldwide, a health problem of increasing importance and great health, social and economic impact. Various factors influence it: biological, psychological, social. However, despite their relevance, psychosocial variables have been a less explored and researched topic, compared to the ample development and advancement in the biomedical field.

Objective:

To carry out a literature review on the problem of psychosocial factors in type 2 diabetes mellitus.

Methods:

An electronic search was carried out in PubMed, ScienceDirect, SciELO and Dialnet databases, covering the period 2008-2018. 49 articles are referenced, taking into account the criteria of relevance.

Conclusions:

It is important to extend the traditional conception of risk factors, in order to consider them from a social perspective. It is often noted that patients have emotional distress (depression, anxiety, anguish), despite which there is not enough diagnosis or treatment. Diabetes education is not frequent and therapeutic adherence is low. It is necessary to device a comprehensive and personalized attention, where the family has a fundamental role. Type 2 diabetes mellitus generates some degree of discrimination and stigmatization. Some patient issues, such as those related to sexuality, are poorly visible topics. Gender differences are observed in various aspects of the disease. In summary, type 2 diabetes mellitus is currently a great challenge that must be addressed in an interdisciplinary manner.

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