RESUMO
BACKGROUND/AIMS: When a patient is diagnosed with diabetes mellitus, it is important to help both the patient and their family members gain knowledge and confidence with regard to self-management. A diabetes camp is an excellent way to recognize the benefits of education. This study was conducted to evaluate the effects of diabetes camp on patients with type 2 diabetes. METHODS: This study comprised 30 patients with diabetes who had participated in a diabetes camp from August 2005 through August 2011. The effectiveness of the diabetes camp was examined retrospectively via clinical parameters, compliance behavior, and a self-esteem questionnaire. RESULTS: Glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c; p = 0.004) was significantly decreased, while measures of self-esteem (p = 0.000) and compliance (p = 0.001) were significantly increased after attending the camp. No significant differences were observed in other clinical parameters, such as weight, body mass index (BMI), and lipid profiles, before and after camp attendance. CONCLUSIONS: Diabetes camp may be an effective way to control diabetes mellitus.