Patient’s Perception Of Diabetes And Its Management Among Patients At La General Hospital

ABSTRACT The prevalence of diabetes is on the increase in the world, however, the rate in sub-Saharan Africa requires urgent attention from health workers. This is because the complications associated with diabetes range from physical to mental health issues leading to shortage of human capital. One of the key issues in diabetes management is self-care practices and these practices are influenced by varied factors. This study examined the influence of diabetes attitude, knowledge and beliefs on their self-care practices among diabetes patients receiving treatment at the La General Hospital. The effects of their demographic characteristics on their self-care practices were also examined. A total of 160 patients participated in a questionnaire survey. A cross-sectional survey design was employed. Independent t test, Pearson correlation and one-way ANOVA were used to analyze the data. Results from the analysis showed that diabetes knowledge had a significant positive influence on patients, self-care practices while diabetes beliefs had a significant negative influence on patient’s self-care. However, no significant correlation was found between diabetes attitude and self-care practices. Further analysis showed that patient’s demographic characteristics such as education, sex, marital status and age had significant effects on their self-care practices. The implication of these findings are discussed.