Knowledge, attitude, and practices towards diabetes and diabetic retinopathy among diabetic patients at Medical Palestinian Complex, Ramallah

Abstract

Diabetes Mellitus (DM) is a worldwide growing burden. Diabetes and its complications constitute a major morbidity burden among the Palestinian population. The main aim of this study was to document the knowledge, attitude, and practices (KAP) of diabetic patients towards diabetes and diabetic retinopathy. This cross-sectional study was conducted over two months at a Medical Palestinian Complex (PMC) outpatient clinic in Ramallah. Fifty diabetic patients were included in the study, and the KAP of patients was assessed using a verbally administered questionnaire. Patients were placed in different categories, such as "good/poor" knowledge, "positive/negative" attitude, and "good/poor" practice. The study involved 50 participants, primarily male, with an average age of 54 years. Overall, knowledge and attitude scores regarding diabetes and diabetic retinopathy were found to be poor, while practice scores were suboptimal for diabetes and poor for diabetic retinopathy. The main barrier to regular follow-up was inadequate knowledge about the importance of eye check-ups. While there was no significant difference in knowledge or attitude towards diabetes and diabetic retinopathy, participants with higher education levels and income demonstrated better practice scores. Additionally, a positive attitude towards diabetes and diabetic retinopathy was associated with better diabetes practice. KAP regarding DM and DR were generally poor among the patients. So, there is an urgent need to improve education and awareness of DM and DR among diabetics, as it is a powerful tool for controlling the disease and its complications by improving patient compliance with treatment and follow-up.