Predictors of Awareness and Management Practices of Diabetes among Rural Dwellers of Sindh

INTRODUCTION: The most substantial method of control for the spread of DM, is the spreading of knowledge and information regarding DM and its complications. Therefore, the objective of this study was to investigate and evaluate the level of knowledge, awareness and management practices among people suffering from DM in the rural areas of Sindh.

METHODOLOGY: A descriptive cross sectional survey was performed on 400 Diabetes Mellitus (DM) Type 2 patients from March 2015 to June 2015, dwelling in rural areas of Sindh province, South Pakistan. A paper based questionnaire was used to determine sociodemographic features, knowledge and awareness with regards to DM and its complications and last part evaluated management practices to manage diabetes.

RESULTS: Only 50% participants knew that DM is a condition of high blood glucose and only 39% considered it as a preventable disease. With regards to management practices, only 65.0% had a home glucometer and 48% regularly checked their blood sugar levels. Family history of DM, BMI, education level, monthly household income, marital status and age were important predictors of knowledge among rural dwellers.

CONCLUSION: Our study has revealed lack of knowledge and inadequate management practices among diabetic patients of rural areas of Sindh, especially in patients attending primary healthcare setups. Management techniques and knowhow of this silent and deadly pathological condition should be spread to rural populace through seminars and media, which would eventually mold their life in a better condition.