Attitudes and behaviors of diabetics about the diabetes clinical prevention and control strategies

Abstract

Introduction: Diabetes Mellitus (DM) is one of the main problem of public health among the chronic non transmissible diseases in several countries. The diabetic’s attitudes to the health professionals’ recommendations are essential for the success therapeutic. In addition, the knowledge about some disease aspects is one of the main points for the prevention diabetes complications. Objective: Evaluate attitudes and behaviors towards prevention strategies adopted and their influence on the clinical control of diabetes. Patients and Methods: Descriptive and exploratory cross-sectional study developed on two Public Basic Health Units in the interior of the state of Sergipe. The collection of data was done through a questionnaire and the clinical exam. Results: A total of 82 questionnaires were applied and all patients had DM type 2. The most of them were female (75.6%) with mean age of 61,74 ± 13,06 years, 39% are illiterate and only 15% are economically active. Overweight was observed in 66% of diabetics and sedentary lifestyle in 74% of them. About 10% had some type of diabetes complication, 8% referred do not follow treatment properly and 5% already presents some level of lower limb amputation associated with diabetes. More than 90% not had enough knowledge about the signs, causes and management of hypoglycemia, and only 18.29% participated of educational activities about diabetic foot care. Conclusion: The results show the necessity to develop preventive strategies focused on health education and promotions to increase knowledge, attitudes and behaviors of diabetic patients.