Investigating Health literacy, knowledge and self-efficacy in patients with type 2 diabetes referring to health centers in shahrekord

Abstract

Background and Objective: Type 2 diabetes is one of the most important public health problems. Health literacy, self-efficacy and knowledge are important factors influencing self-care behaviors in diabetic patients. The aim of this study was to determine the health literacy, knowledge and self-efficacy of diabetic patients referring to health centers in Shahrekord. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional descriptive study was performed on 138 diabetic patients referring to Shahrekord health centers in 2017. Patients were selected via convenience random sampling from five health centers and entered the study. The data were collected using demographic variables, health literacy questionnaire (TOHFLA), knowledge and self-efficacy. In this study, SPSS 18 and descriptive and inferential statistical tests (linear regression analysis and Pearson and analysis of variance) was used to analyze data. Results: The results showed that 52.9% of the patients had inadequate health literacy. The mean score of health literacy in diabetic patients was 45.23 ± 21.43, the mean score of knowledge was 66.39±23.37 and the mean score of self-efficacy was obtained 31.09±34.21. There were significant relationships between health literacy, self-efficacy and knowledge (P = 0.001); the results of multiple regression analysis indicated that knowledge is the main predictors of health literacy. Conclusion: Regarding the low level of health literacy and self-efficacy of diabetic patients, it is necessary to implement interventions using health education models to enhance their health literacy and self-efficacy for improving quality of their lives Paper Type: Research Article