Awareness of Diabetes Mellitus and Glycemic control amongst patients with Type 2 Diabetes

Abstract

Background: The patient’s awareness about diabetes, its complications, role of lifestyle modifications can establish patient specific goals. This study was done to determine the level of awareness regarding Diabetes mellitus, its complications and Glycemic control. Methods: A survey was carried out on 245 diabetic patients visiting Medicine OPDs at affiliated hospitals in Pune to determine the level of awareness of Diabetes Mellitus and Glycemic control amongst patients with Type 2 Diabetes. A predesigned and validated questionnaire was administered which was further modified post pilot study. Results: Total 200 patients with mean age of 53±6.66 years (84 males and 116 females), mean duration of diabetes 8.20±8.057 years and mean HbA1C 7.11±0.95 % were interviewed for the level of awareness of Diabetes Mellitus and Glycemic control. Around 62% people perceived diabetes to be a life lasting disorder whereas 24% considered it to be a life threatening and a non-treatable disorder. Almost 77% completely agreed that Glycemic control is important with 71% completely agreed that daily exercise with a particular exercise regime and lifestyle modification proves advantageous. Around 63% completely agreed that a proper diet plan should be followed by diabetics and they should not skip meals. Conclusion: Majority of diabetes patients had awareness about diabetes, its complications, role of exercises and diet in glycemic control.