Knowledge Regarding Self-Care Among Patients of Type -2 Diabetes Mellitus and Its Relationship with Their Socio-Demographic Characteristic in Rajshahi City

Abstract

Background: Diabetes mellitus one of the main chronic illnesses that is now a global public health concern. Diabetes complications and mortality might arise from inadequate knowledge about diabetes self-care. The patient's level of knowledge on diabetes self-care has a direct correlation with diabetic complications. Methods: This was a cross-sectional descriptive study conducted from January to December 2022. The study focused on patients with type 2 diabetes at Rajshahi Medical College Hospital and Rajshahi Diabetic Association General Hospital. Data was collected from 210 respondents using a purposive sampling technique and a semi-structured questionnaire. Results: A total of 210 patients with diabetes, with a mean age of 51.44±8.26 years, were included. Among those 69.5% had good knowledge and 30.5% had poor knowledge regarding self-care among diabetes patients. Knowledge of diabetes self-care was found to be significantly correlated with residency (p<0.01), education level (p<0.001), and monthly income (p<0.01). Conclusions: Knowledge of self-care is essential for keeping diabetes under control. The government and mass media must work to raise public awareness about its importance for diabetes patients.