Abstract
The objective of this study was to examine the risk factors, knowledge, attitudes, and practices of type 2 diabetic patients attending three health care facilities (Industry and Campbellville Health Centers and the West Demerara Regional Hospital) in Guyana, May and June 2019. This study utilized a quantitative, descriptive and cross-sectional approach. The sampling technique used was non-probability and purposive sampling. The participants included 114 diabetic patients attending three selected health centers in Guyana. The study used a pretested questionnaire to collect survey data. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 20.0. Statistical analysis methods were mean, median, standard deviation, percentages, cross-tabulation, p-value, chi-square, ANOVA and Friedman test. Study results indicated that risk factors such as age, ethnicity, family history, BMI had no significant relationship with the onset of diabetes among the study population. Findings revealed that the mean average of participants' RBS, BP, fasting blood sugar, HbA1C and lipid profile were high. Participants demonstrated an inadequate level of knowledge and practices. Some of the participants had challenges accessing specific laboratory tests and Insulin. Findings concluded that there is a critical need for improving diabetic knowledge and healthy practices among diabetic patients. Establishing culturally oriented and multi-sectoral diabetic self-care management programs is imperative to manage diabetes effectively.
Highlights
Diabetes mellitus poses a significant public health challenge in the Caribbean region due to epidemiological and nutritional transition [1]
The researcher pretested the tool for validity and reliability purposes—the survey questionnaire comprised items regarding risk factors, knowledge, attitudes and practices related to diabetic care
A total of 114 diabetic patients participated in this study
Summary
Diabetes mellitus poses a significant public health challenge in the Caribbean region due to epidemiological and nutritional transition [1]. Lifestyle changes such as unhealthy dietary practices, physical inactivity, obesity and substance abuse significantly contribute to a higher incidence of diabetes and heart diseases in the Caribbean region [2]. The overall prevalence of type 2 diabetes in the Caribbean region is estimated to be approximately 9%. In Guyana, approximately 24,000-36,000 people (8-12% prevalence) are living with diabetes, 40,000-50,000 people (16-20% prevalence) are living with hypertension, and 54,000-68,000 people are living with the two chronic diseases [6]. Studies indicate that Guyana has the second-highest prevalence (15.9%) of diabetes in the
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