Assessment Of Knowledge, Attitude And Practices Related To Diabetes Among Patients With Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus In Mwanza Region - Tanzania

ABSTRACT

Introduction; Prevalence of diabetes mellitus is increasing globally and the rate of increase is higher in the developing countries than developed countries. The aim of this study was to assess the Knowledge, attitude and practices related to Diabetes among Patient with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus in Mwanza Region- Tanzania. Methods; The study was descriptive cross-sectional study. A total of 330 respondents were interviewed conveniently from OPD - diabetic unit in Mwanza region. Results; About 189 (57.3%) of the respondents were females and 182 (55.2%) of all respondents were from urban residence. All respondents responded that diabetic medication should continue for life and that both diet and medicine are equally important in management of diabetes. About 84.5% said that exercise has benefits to patients with diabetic mellitus. All respondent said that, the patient herself/himself is responsible for taking care of own condition together with the family and health care provider. About 99.7% of the respondents measured their blood pressure once per month last month and about 67.3% had glucometer at home. Conclusion; Knowledge and practices related to management of diabetes mellitus was good among respondents. However, time for consultation is still unsatisfactory to the respondents. It is therefore important for the healthcare providers to take this into consideration so that the patient-healthcare provider will be satisfactory hence it motivate more the patients in managing their condition and improve their wellbeing. vi TABLE OF CO