ABSTRACT
Diabetes mellitus has been recognized as a disease for centuries. Non-insulin dependent diabetes mellitus [NIDDM] is becoming one of the main health problems in developing countries. Diabetes is a prime example of a chronic disease that requires patients to play an active role in daily self-management. This study aims to [1] describe the specific self-regulatory measures that individuals with non Insulin-Dependent Diabetes Mellitus perform to promote diabetic control, [2] identify the factors affecting the self care measures among Non-Insulin-Dependent Diabetes Mellitus patients. One hundred patients with NIDDM were randomly selected from diabetic clinics of both Ain Shams University Hospital and El-Sahel Educational Hospital. Tools of data collection, were [1] a patient self care rating scales sheet concerned with socio-demographic data, self care activities, a self dietary care, exercises, patient compliance with medication and foot care, etc. [2] a withdrawal venous blood sample for measuring the level of hemoglobin and HbAlc. Approximately one third of the patients [30%] able to describe 5 foods to be avoided, [33%] aware of symptoms of hypoglycemic attack and [50%] able to inspect foot daily, correctly. The majority of the patients have a knowledge deficit regarding self-care activities. There is a positive significant correlation between levels of HbAlc, and BMI, also between HbAlc, and socioeconomic level. Develop a patient educational program using different teaching strategies aims to promote and maintaining an independent self care level for a diabetic patient with non-insulin dependent diabetes mellitus