Knowledge of and adherence to health advice among adults with diabetes in Libya

Abstract

Background: Non-adherence to medical and health care advice is a common problem, though reasons for non-adherence can differ across different groups and societies as well as between individuals. Objective: to examine diabetes knowledge among people with both type1 and type2 diabetes in Libya and explore any other factors that enhance adherence to treatment and management of the condition. Methods: A cross-sectional survey design was used to collect data from adults with type1 or type2 diabetes who have been diagnosed for 12 months or more, in Benghazi Diabetes Centre, which is one of the oldest and largest diabetes registries in Libya. A total of 855 participants were asked to fill in two questionnaires; the “Michigan Diabetes Knowledge Test” to investigate the level of diabetes knowledge and the Confidence in Diabetes Self-care Scale to assess self-efficacy. For the purpose of the study descriptive statistics and inferential statistical tests were conducted. Results: Diabetes knowledge is very poor especially among females and those classed as illiterate within the sample. The mean HbA1c of 9.4 was higher than the recommended levels. Four variables namely knowledge about diabetes, duration of illness, family history and self-efficacy significantly predicted levels of HbA1c. Conclusion: Based on the above findings, two different program of diabetes education would be recommended. The first would target those with inadequate levels of knowledge about diabetes, particularly women and people with long duration diabetes. The second would be for both healthcare professionals and people with type 1 and type 2 diabetes considering the psychological factors that are involved in diabetes management.