Self-management knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors among patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus in a community of western China: A cross-sectional study

Abstract

Aims

We aimed to investigate the status quo of self-management knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors (KAB) among patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) in community health service centers.

Methods

We conducted a cross-sectional study of 755 patients from 16 primary community using a questionnaire. Multiple logistic regression was used to explore the independent factors influencing patients’ T2DM self-management KAB.

Results

We evaluated 755 patients with T2DM (mean age 64.65 ± 10.53 years). Most patients in this study had lower education levels, and a non-medical professional background. Only the average score for attitude reached a good level; average scores for patients’ self-management behavior were at a poor level. Normal blood pressure, not smoking, and a longer course of disease were factors positively influencing good self-management behavior in patients with diabetes.

Conclusion

Patients had positive attitudes toward self-management. Therefore, primary medical institutions should consider implementing tailored educational interventions to enhance diabetes awareness and self-management behaviors among diverse patient populations.