Rural Tamil Nadu Research Articles

Lived experiences of diabetes self-management among persons with disabilities in rural Tamil Nadu – a case study approach

BackgroundPeople with disabilities have numerous challenges in diabetes self-management. Poor self-management leads to the worsening of disability and secondary complications of diabetes. This study was conducted to explore the challenges in diabetes self-management and the factors influencing diabetes self-management among people with disabilities.MethodsWe conducted 16 case studies among people with physical, neurological, visual, hearing, and multiple disabilities who were affected by diabetes. We adopted a thematic content analysis approach to analyse the data.ResultsPeople with disabilities have challenges in adopting healthy diets as they are unable to purchase and consume fruits and vegetables which are costly, unavailable, and inaccessible. They have difficulty in doing physical activity due to lack of inclusive public spaces which are inaccessible, lack of motivation, and dependence on others for their mobility. Irregular drug supply in the public health system and unaffordable cost of drugs hamper adherence to medications. Laboratories are inaccessible to people with disabilities thus preventing monitoring of blood sugars. They have poor quality of life, life with pain and mental health issues, which prevent adoption of self-management behaviors. The intersectionality of age and gender with disability worsens self-management behaviors. Inaccessible health system, poor quality of health care and insensitive health care providers further complicate self-management.ConclusionThis study documents the challenges faced by persons with disabilities in practicing diabetes self management. There is a need for public health policy and planning that is inclusive of persons with disabilities to make access to diabetes care universal.

Young Consumer’s Awareness on Food Packet Labeling in Rural Tamil Nadu – A Convergent Mixed Methods Study

Abstract Background: Food labeling is one medium by which consumers can acquire knowledge about the food they consider buying. This type of information is becoming increasingly important in a food market where direct contact with personnel over the counter is declining. Objectives: The objective of this study was to evaluate the level of awareness on food packet labeling and to explore the contributing factors of food packet label awareness among college students in Villupuram district, rural Tamil Nadu. Methodology: The study was carried out among 113 college students studying in Government Arts and Science College, Thiruvennainallur village, located in Villupuram district. A convergent mixed methods study design was used. A structured self-administered questionnaire was given to the students who participated in the National Nutrition Week awareness program. The questionnaire included variables such as checking for date of manufacturing, date of packaging, best-before date, storage conditions, lot number/code number/batch number, containing FSSAI code, and checking list of ingredients. In-depth interview was conducted among eight students who volunteered to explore the reasons for not checking food packet labels and solutions to improve the visibility of food package labeling. Categorical variables were summarized using percentages. Manual content analysis was done for in-depth interviews. Results: It was found that more than 90% of the study participants check for food packet labels, best-before dates, and date of packaging. However, more than half of the participants did not check for lot/code/batch number and storage conditions. The most common reason for not checking food labels was package-related factors such as font size very small, hidden, and hard to find and trust on brand and seller. The most common solution to improve the visibility of food labeling was increasing the font size and highlighting the important information. Conclusions: Our study highlights the level of awareness about food labels among youngsters and the solutions to improve the visibility of food labels. Need-based interventions have to be done to ensure the food safety of the consumers.

A community-based study on health seeking behaviour among NCD patients in rural and urban Tamil Nadu - A convergent mixed method study.

To analyse the hospital visitations and lifestyle modifications of NCD patients. To do a comparative study about the health seeking behaviour among NCD patients in Rural and Urban areas. To explore the various difficulties that patients face with regards to Lifestyle modifications. It is a convergent type mixed-methods design, undertaken in the field practicing areas of RHTCs and UPHCs of Government Medical College, Omandurar Government Estate. The data was collected by means of Free listing, Focussed Group Discussions, Key Informant Interviews and Structured Questionnaires from patients diagnosed with one or more non-communicable diseases. Smith's S value Manual Content Analysis Bivariate analysis. The health seeking behaviour of NCD patients is influenced by lesser crowding and shorter distance to travel, reduced waiting time, focused attention from and familiarity with the healthcare provider, community health, systematic dispensing of medications and regularised testing. Rural population have a higher positively inclined health seeking behaviour than urban population. The health seeking behaviour of patients with NCDs seem to be on the positive trend and is influenced by the locality of the respondents.

Modeling associations between household energy use and ambient PM2.5 levels using low-cost sensors in rural Tamil Nadu, India

Modeling associations between household energy use and ambient PM2.5 levels using low-cost sensors in rural Tamil Nadu, India

Birth Preparedness and Complication Readiness Among Rural Pregnant Women of Tamilnadu: A Cross Sectional Study

Background: Birth preparedness and complication readiness serve as valuable tactics for enhancing the provision of maternal and child care services, consequently reducing morbidity and mortality associated with childbirth. Anticipating childbirth and possessing prior awareness of potential complications enables women to access services promptly. Methods: In 2022, a community-based cross-sectional study was conducted involving a sample of 480 pregnant women. Data on Birth Preparedness and Complication Readiness (BPCR) were gathered using a pretested and standardized questionnaire. Data analysis was performed utilizing SPSS version 20. The questionnaire encompassed inquiries regarding birth preparedness, such as the selection of a health facility, designation of a birth attendant, arrangement for transportation, securing a blood donor, and whether the woman had saved money for delivery. Complication readiness was assessed through questions concerning complications during pregnancy, delivery, and the neonatal period. Results: Out of the 480 pregnant women included in the study, 30.8% were classified as belonging to the upper middle class. Additionally, 55% of the participants had experienced multiple pregnancies, while 74.2% were identified as being in their third trimester. Furthermore, 70% of the women had undergone their initial Antenatal Care (ANC) checkup before reaching 12 weeks of gestation. Despite these demographics, the study found a general lack of awareness regarding Birth Preparedness and Complication Readiness (BPCR) among the participants. Conclusion: The study indicates a low level of birth preparedness and complication readiness within Rural Tamilnadu. To address this issue effectively, targeted health education strategies should be directed towards young couples and adolescent girls, who represent the future mothers. Implementing both individual and community-level interventions focused on birth preparedness and complication readiness has the potential to enhance maternal service delivery and ultimately reduce both morbidity and mortality rates associated with childbirth.

A Study on Scope and Implementation of Self-Employment and Small Scale Business Peoples Digital Marketing in Rural Tamil Nadu Areas

A Study on Scope and Implementation of Self-Employment and Small Scale Business Peoples Digital Marketing in Rural Tamil Nadu Areas

Hemoptysis and Deep Vein Thrombosis in a middle aged male due to Anti Phospholipid Antibody (APLA) Syndrome’’ - A Case Report

Abstract 36 Years old male, farmer by profession from rural Tamil Nadu presented with complaints of unilateral painful leg swelling for 1 month and cough with hemoptysis for 3 weeks. Chest skiagram revealed Hampton’s hump and ultrasound venous Doppler revealed deep vein thrombosis of the left leg. His computed tomography pulmonary angiogram revealed pulmonary embolism. Due to unusual presentation work up was done and we found positive anti cardiolipin antibody, lupus anticoagulant and anti β 2 glycoprotein antibody. Patient was diagnosed as APLA and was started on oral anticoagulant.

Exploring Challenges and Satisfaction from E- Learning in Higher Secondary Grade School Students in Rural Tamil Nadu

This study investigates the landscape of e-learning among high school students (grades 10-12) in India, aiming to identify challenges and opportunities within digital education platforms. Through surveys and qualitative analysis, it uncovers insights into students' perceptions of e-learning. Findings reveal significant challenges, with 43% of students disagreeing that e-learning effectively engages them, while only 10% find it innovative. Additionally, 72% report feeling stressed and requiring more mental effort during e-learning, impacting their well-being. Confidence in facing examinations decreases for 66.7% of students, and 79.2% experience reduced interest in studies during virtual learning. Furthermore, 81.7% note a decline in interaction with teachers and peers, a vital aspect of traditional learning. Technical obstacles persist, with only 23% using laptops/desktops, 77% relying on mobile phones, and 22.9% receiving no e-materials for reading. Most students (85%) endure 1-5 hours of e-learning daily, primarily through real-time platforms like Zoom and WhatsApp calls (75%).In conclusion, this research sheds light on the multifaceted nature of e-learning experiences among high school students in India. While significant challenges exist, including reduced engagement, increased stress, and technical obstacles, there are also opportunities for enhancing learning outcomes through flexible access and innovative methodologies. By addressing these challenges and capitalizing on opportunities, educational institutions and policymakers can optimize e-learning experiences and ensure equitable access to quality education for all students.

IJCM_315A: Pesticide exposure and Diabetes Mellitus - A Community based Analytical Cross-sectionalstudy among agricultural workers in Madurai east community block, Tamil Nadu

Background: World Health Organization (WHO) states that diabetes mellitus (DM) is the ninth leading cause of death in 2019¹. The study by Velmurugan et.al² in 2021 in rural Tamil Nadu shows a high prevalence of DM among agricultural workers (15.0%) compared to non-farming communities (8.7%). Pesticides, a source of Endocrine Disrupting Chemicals (EDCs) play a major etiological role in Diabetes Mellitus among them. Hence the need for present study. Objectives: 1. To estimate the prevalence of diabetes mellitus among agricultural workers in Madurai East Block 2. To find the association between pesticide exposure and other variables with DM. Methodology: A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 150 agricultural workers in Madurai East using multistage cluster sampling during august to November 2023.Sample size was calculated using Velmurugan et.al study². After obtaining informed consent, study population was interviewed using semi-structured validated (containing details about sociodemographics, pesticide exposure questionnaire, diabetic status) followed by anthropometric measurements in the previous day evening and advised 8 hrs fasting that night. Next day morning by 6 am, second visit was made to check fasting capillary blood glucose (CBG) using Accu-Chek glucometer. Data was analyzed using SPSS software version 21.0. Results: The mean age of the study population was 50.63 ± 13.36 years. Females constituted 66% (n=99). The mean years of agricultural work was 26.55 ± 13 years. The overall prevalence of DM among study population was 29.3%. The prevalence was slightly higher in pesticide applicators (33.33%) than agricultural workers (29.1%). Except for age, the chi-square test showed no significant association between pesticide exposure, gender, family history of DM, with DM. Conclusion: Higher Diabetic prevalence among agricultural workers demands further research to prove the hypothesis of pesticide exposure and development of diabetes.

The Impact of Demographic Factors on Financial Literacy among Farmers: Insights from Rural Tamil Nadu

Financial literacy is becoming more widely acknowledged as an essential skill for navigating the intricacies of the financial world. Governments globally are proactively working to improve financial literacy among their populations, understanding that a lack of proficiency in this domain can result in persistent difficulties that greatly affect a person’s financial health. In our country, the convergence of limited literacy and restricted access to financial services poses a barrier for smallholders in acquiring these essential skills. Given the diverse needs within different demographic groups, tailored financial education becomes imperative. This research, focusing on the specific demographic of “farmers,” serves as valuable insight for the government to customize financial literacy content. The study employs the Chi-square test to analyze the association between literacy levels and demographic variables, offering a comprehensive understanding of the dynamics at play.

Vision on wheels: Technician-assisted retinopathy of prematurity screening in rural Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh: 2018-2021 Project Report.

To analyze the incidence of sight-threatening retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) in premature infants in rural Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh from 2018 to 2021, and to analyze its association with birthweight (BW), gestational age (GA), and postconceptional age (PCA). Project Vision on Wheels is a free ROP screening and treatment program initiated by a tertiary eye care center in South India in June 2018 to screen preterm infants in rural areas in 11 centers in Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh by trained technicians. Infants with sight-threatening ROP were immediately shifted for vision-preserving laser. Of the 18,117 infants screened from 2018 to 2021, 1046 infants underwent laser, with the majority being bigger and more mature when compared to Western data. There was a yearly increase in the number of infants with sight-threatening ROP in the lower BW, GA, and PCA categories. The timely detection of the condition by committed screening led to salvage of vision by timely laser in 100% of the treated babies in all the years. The incidence of sight-threatening ROP had a yearly decrease in higher BW, GA, and PCA categories. These trends were statistically significant ( P = 0.001 for ROP and BW, P = 0.037 for ROP and GA, and P = 0.001 for ROP and PCA). The statistically significant trend of decreasing sight-threatening ROP in babies with higher BW, GA, and PCA and increasing treatable ROP in younger and smaller babies (with lower BWs, GAs, and PCAs) in rural India, over time, is a hitherto unreported finding. This is the first such study in rural Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh combined, with the largest data to date (as per MEDLINE search) to document this healthier trend.

Knowledge Regarding Reproductive Tract Infection Among Ever Married Females of Reproductive Age Group in Rural Tamil Nadu.

Background Reproductive tract infection (RTI) is an overgrowth of the normal flora of the reproductive tract. It is an iatrogenic infection caused by unhygienic practices like unsafe abortion. Lack of knowledge plays a major role among the factors associated. The District Level Health Survey (DLHS)-4 reported that the knowledge about RTI among the rural population of Tamil Nadu is 8 percent. It is thus necessary to know about their knowledge regarding RTI. Aim To assess the knowledge regarding reproductive tract infection among the ever-married rural women in the reproductive age group in Kancheepuram district, Tamil Nadu. Settings and design A cross-sectional study was conducted in the rural Kancheepuram district of Tamil Nadu. Materials and methods The sample size calculated was 330. Using multi-stage random sampling, a population proportion to the calculated sample size was used. A standardized questionnaire was used for data collection. Ethical approval was obtained. Statistical analysis used SPSS -21.0 was used for statistical purposes. A chi-square test was applied for significance. P-value <0.05 is considered significant. Results Among 330 females, 166 (50.3%) presented with any symptom of RTIs in the past three months, and 300 (90.9%) have heard about RTIs, with the main source of information being health education by the health care workers (155, 46.9%); 9.1% (31) females had no or poor knowledge regarding the RTIs. Conclusions Because of a lack of knowledge, RTI was prevalent among women in the rural community who were of reproductive age. Regular health education should be given to women who are fertile in order to increase their understanding.

Exploring the Landscape of Indian Traditional Medicine in Rural Tamil Nadu: Knowledge, Attitudes, Practices, and Safety Concerns

Indian traditional medicine, encompassing systems such as Ayurveda, Siddha, and Unani, has been deeply rooted in the cultural heritage of the country for centuries. In rural Tamil Nadu, where these traditions have thrived, there exists a rich tapestry of knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding traditional medicine. This study aims to delve into the landscape of traditional medicine in rural Tamil Nadu, shedding light on the depth of local knowledge, prevailing attitudes, prevalent practices, and pertinent safety concerns. Utilizing a mixed-methods approach, including qualitative interviews and quantitative assessments, data was collected from diverse rural communities across Tamil Nadu. Findings reveal a nuanced understanding of traditional medicine, deeply intertwined with cultural beliefs and socio-economic factors. Local communities demonstrate a profound knowledge of medicinal plants, formulations, and therapeutic practices passed down through generations. However, alongside this wealth of knowledge, concerns regarding safety, efficacy, and regulation persist. Attitudes toward traditional medicine are multifaceted, reflecting a blend of reverence, skepticism, and pragmatism. While many individuals continue to rely on traditional healers and remedies for primary healthcare needs, others express reservations, citing issues of standardization and scientific validation. Practices vary widely, from home remedies administered by family members to consultations with traditional practitioners and integration with modern healthcare systems. This study explores Indian traditional medicine in rural Tamil Nadu, highlighting safety concerns like adulteration and misidentification of plants. It suggests a comprehensive approach that integrates traditional and modern medicine, ensuring the safety and well-being of rural communities while addressing knowledge, attitudes, and practices. The approach places a strong emphasis on using data and statistics from secondary sources to discuss the article’s subject. It draws attention to how important the current social, political, and economic environment is in shaping the conversation.

Effect of Positive Deviance Approach on Promotion of Safe Disposal of Child's Feces in Rural Tamil Nadu: A Community-Based Quasi-Experimental Study.

Safe disposal of feces is ensured when it is deposited into a toilet, whereas unsafe disposal of child's feces plays a crucial role in disease transmission and environmental pollution. These areas are overlooked by many sanitation promotion interventions. To determine the effect of positive deviance (PD) approach on safe disposal of child's feces among households who owned a toilet. A community-based quasi-experimental study was conducted in the four field practice villages of the Urban Health Training Center, Villupuram, for 18 months. Households who owned a toilet and had a child less than 5 years old were included. After IEC clearance, information was collected from a representative sample of 100 households before intervention and another 100 households after intervention. PD approach was applied for 6 months to promote safe disposal practices in the study villages. Data were analyzed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) software (version 24). The Chi-square test was used to determine the significance of difference between baseline and endline data. The effect size was calculated to estimate the magnitude of difference between baseline and endline data. Before intervention, only 3% of households disposed the feces into a toilet, while after intervention, almost 38% of households disposed in the toilet (χ2 = 37.39; df = 1; P = 0.001). The effect size (Cramer's V) was found to be 0.43. PD approach demonstrated considerable improvements in safe disposal of child's feces in rural settings. Further, to sustain the behavior change, frequent reinforcement of key messages at frequent intervals needs to be emphasized.

Awareness and healthcare-seeking behavior regarding acute respiratory infections among mothers of under-five children in rural Tamil Nadu: A hospital-based cross-sectional study

Abstract Background: Acute respiratory infection (ARI) is one of the leading causes of morbidity and eventually mortality in under-five children across the globe. Awareness regarding ARI among mothers of these children is very essential to detect danger signs early, prevent the delay in health-seeking and thereby limiting its progression to severe illness. The present study was undertaken to assess the awareness of mothers regarding ARI in their under-five children and their healthcare-seeking behavior for the same. Materials and Methods: The present cross-sectional study was carried out among 200 mothers of under-five children attending the outpatient department of a rural health center in Tamil Nadu. A predesigned questionnaire was used to assess their sociodemographic characteristics, awareness about ARIs, and healthcare-seeking behavior regarding ARIs in under-five children. Descriptive and inferential statistics were applied for data analysis. Results: The mean awareness score (±standard deviation) of mothers regarding ARI in their under-five children was 8.34 ± 1.49, and overall, 94.50% of mothers had fair awareness regarding ARI. The association between occupation and awareness level of mothers regarding ARI was found to be statistically significant, while that of other variables was not statistically significant. Most of the mothers (88.0%) preferred to consult a qualified allopathic doctor for their child’s ARI. Those who do not seek health-care services for their child’s illness believe that the disease is self-limiting, while others try traditional medicines at home before seeking health-care services. Conclusion: Majority of mothers had fair awareness regarding childhood ARI in this study. It is necessary to put more effort into educating these mothers about the importance of early detection and seeking appropriate health care for ARI in their children.

A Case Series of Optic Nerve Head Melanocytoma from a Tertiary Care Hospital in Rural Tamil Nadu

Optic Nerve Head Melanocytoma (ONHM) is a rare benign pigmented condition manifested due to the presence of Uveal melanocytes more predominantly on or just adjacent to the optic nerve head. In spite of having a rare possibility for being malignant, it has previously been misdiagnosed to be a malignant melanoma that resulted in the execution of various enucleations. We report a case series of three patient’s with Optic Nerve Head Melanocytoma, all noted as incidental findings on routine examination. Though benign, we would like to stress on advising a lifelong follow-up in these patients.

Heat Exposure among Adult Women in Rural Tamil Nadu, India.

Exposure to heat is associated with a substantial burden of disease and is an emerging issue in the context of climate change. Heat is of particular concern in India, which is one of the world's hottest countries and also most populous, where relatively little is known about personal heat exposure, particularly in rural areas. Here, we leverage data collected as part of a randomized controlled trial to describe personal temperature exposures of adult women (40-79 years of age) in rural Tamil Nadu. We also characterize measurement error in heat exposure assessment by comparing personal exposure measurements to the nearest ambient monitoring stations and to commonly used modeled temperature data products. We find that temperatures differ across individuals in the same area on the same day, sometimes by more than 5 °C within the same hour, and that some individuals experience sharp increases in heat exposure in the early morning or evening, potentially a result of cooking with solid fuels. We find somewhat stronger correlations between the personal exposure measurements and the modeled products than with ambient monitors. We did not find evidence of systematic biases, which indicates that adjusting for discrepancies between different exposure measurement methods is not straightforward.

Leveraging monitoring, evaluation, and learning to scale the Enabling Inclusion® program for children with disabilities in India and globally.

Children with disabilities in low- and middle-income countries face many challenges and lack adequate services, including access to rehabilitation professionals. To address this lack of access, Amar Seva Sangam Ayikudy (ASSA), a non-governmental organization (NGO) in India, designed a technology-leveraged rehabilitation program called Enabling Inclusion® (EI®), and implemented it in one state (Tamil Nadu, India) before scaling it. The model is supported by the EI® app, which enables organizations to screen, assess and monitor progress of children with disabilities via rehabilitation specialists and community rehabilitation workers, and to provide family-centered, goal-based interventions. An extensive monitoring, evaluation, and learning (MEL) framework is embedded into the program. This paper explores how this MEL system supported the scaling of the EI® model, reaching additional beneficiaries nationally and globally. This paper describes ASSA's MEL framework and demonstrates its use for decision-making in the process of scaling. It also explores how collaborations with various government departments, NGOs, and private partners contributed to the scaling of the EI® model and technology. Scaling of the EI® program was achieved by (1) expansion of the program in rural Tamil Nadu (vertical scale-up) in partnership with the Tamil Nadu government and private partners, and (2) by licensing the EI® app and model to other NGOs in various states in India and globally (horizontal scale-up). Systematic examination of key program and performance indicators, as well as stakeholder feedback, informed decisions to modify the EI® app over time. This included further customizing to the needs of children and service providers, covering a greater range of age groups and contexts, and modifying service delivery models. Child functional independence, participation, and inclusion was further strengthened by mobilizing parent empowerment groups, community awareness programs, school advocacy, and entitlements from the government. Flexibility in the implementation model of the EI® app allowed for adaptation to local contexts and organizations, and facilitated its scale-up. A dynamic, inclusive, and locally grounded MEL system, a flexible and collaborative approach, and an adaptive implementation model increased the accessibility of an early intervention and childhood rehabilitation program for children with disabilities and their families throughout the state of Tamil Nadu, across India, and internationally.

A STUDY ON ETIOLOGICAL FACTORS AND CO MORBIDITIES IN CHILDREN WITH SEVERE ACUTE MALNUTRITION ADMITTED IN A RURAL TERTIARY CARE CENTRE

Objectives: In India, children under 5 years of age suffer from varying degrees of malnutrition. As the severity of undernutrition increases, risk of other diseases increases exponentially. The aim of this study was to identify etiological factors for severe acute malnutrition (SAM) in children aged 6 months to 5 years. Methods: This was a cross-sectional descriptive study conducted at Department of Pediatrics of a rural tertiary care center, Tamil Nadu, India, between January and December 2020. All children with SAM in the age group of 6 months to 5 years were included in the study while children with secondary causes of malnutrition were excluded. Sociodemographic data were entered in preformed proforma. Nutritional status was assessed using the World Health Organization (WHO) standard growth charts. Descriptive data were given in summary statistics while Student’s t-test and Pearson’s Chi-square test were used for analyzing variables. p&lt;0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: Among 111 children included, mean age was 25.2±15.7 months, 55.85% were females, mean height was 82.4±12.0 cm, 85.58% were from lower socioeconomic status, and mean duration of hospital stay was 5.9±2.5 days. Mothers were the caregivers in 80.18%, 63.96% were unaware of breastfeeding practices, and 59.46% had exclusively breastfed for &lt;3 months. Complementary feed was unsatisfactory in 77.48%, and 75.67% of children were given cow’s milk but inadequate. As maternal age increased, awareness of breastfeeding (p=0.0005) and complementary feeding (p=0.0005) significantly increased. The mean weight at admission was 8.09±2.25 kg which increased to 8.26±2.25 kg and was significant (p=0.0005). Conclusion: As mothers were the primary caregivers but with poor awareness on breastfeeding practices, awareness campaigns targeting mothers will be more effective. As awareness on breastfeeding and complementary feeding increased with increasing maternal age, age of childbirth can be increased to more than 20 years.

A qualitative study on perceptions and practices of diabetes prevention and management in rural south India

Abstract Aims: The purpose of this study is to explore the perceptions and practices of diabetes management through focus group discussions (FGDs) among adults with diabetes in rural Tamil Nadu. Materials and Methods: A qualitative study was conducted among individuals with diabetes who were part of the Telemedicine pRoject for screENing Diabetes and its complications in rural Tamil Nadu (TREND). A total of 16 FGDs were conducted using a semi-structured FGD guide that elicited perceptions of the different aspects of diabetes management and knowledge about diabetes prevention. The sample size was based on the attainment of thematic saturation. All FGDs were audio-recorded and transcribed verbatim. The textual data was then coded into meaning units and grouped into themes. Data were analyzed using NVIVO software version 10.0. Results: There were varied responses with respect to diet, medication adherence, regularity of follow-up, knowledge about diabetes, and diabetes prevention. Most participants had limited knowledge of the disease and did not have regular hospital visits. Several participants were unable to adhere to the diet prescribed by healthcare providers, as they lived alone or were dependent on someone in the family for dietary needs. Most participants were unaware that diabetes could be prevented. Some participants were interested in serving as “Diabetes ambassadors” to educate rural societies about diabetes. Conclusions: Understanding the perceptions and practices about diabetes management and prevention strategies could help primary healthcare workers effectively treat, manage, and prevent diabetes in underserved rural populations.