survey of awareness regarding diabetes and its management among patients with diabetes in Peshwar, Pakistan

ABSTRACT

To determine and compare the level of awareness regarding diabetes mellitus, its complications and management in male and female diabetic patients of Peshawar, Pakistan. A cross sectional study conducted in Peshawar, from February to July 2013. A well organized questionnaire was used, having fourteen items. The participants were interviewed and the questionnaire was filled by trained persons [Diabetes Educators]. The correct answers were marked as aware and incorrect as unaware, and made conversions to percentage. Total 561 diabetic patients were assessed. The data was analyzed using SPSS v.16 software and excel 2007. The level of awareness regarding diabetes and its management was found inadequate. Amongst, 36.3% male and 13% female diabetics were aware that why glycemic control is important, 63% male and 32.4% females were aware that diabetes could produce some complications. Similarly 23.7% male and 10% female respondents know importance of blood glucose monitoring. Only 181 male and 31 female diabetics were aware of hypoglycemia symptoms and management. Over all level of awareness in female patients as compared to male patients was found low. The overall level of awareness in both male and female diabetics was found low; and comparatively female patients have poorer awareness.