The health and productivity burden due to T2DM was
assessed using a simplified 44 question /106 item questionnaire
administered using paper/pencil format at baseline
and after 24 weeks. The questionnaire included items
to assess the severity of diabetic symptoms, general
physical and mental health status, work limitations and
productivity, and knowledge gaps related to diabetes selfcare.
The questionnaire was a combination of proven and
validated items from the Work Limitations Questionnaire
(WLQ),14 and Short Form 36 (SF-36),15 along with additional
questions to assess the burden of disease and the
impact of the treatment. The survey was developed in the
US (Harris-Allen Group, Brookline, Massachusetts, USA).
When available, the Chinese language version was used;
otherwise, the questionnaires were translated by the principal
investigators with adjustment according to the Chinese
culture.