Study of Knowledge, Attitude and Practice (KAP) about Self-care in Diabetic Patients

Abstract Introduction: Diabetesis one of the most common chronic conditions and a major public health concern in Iran. Increasing awareness regarding diabetes can reduce mortality and economic burden on health systems. Objective: To determine the level of diabetes related health knowledge, attitude and practice (KAP) among diabetic patients residing in west of Mazandaran Province. Materials and Methods: This descriptive cross-sectional study was carried out on the patients with type-2 diabetes, referredto Ramsar 13Aban Pharmacy and Shafa outpatient clinic from May 2016 to Feb 2017. 240 patients were enrolled in the study and a questionnaire was filled through face-to-face interview. Level of KAP was evaluated by calculating the scores and the data were analyzed by SPSS software. Results: The mean age of patients was 58.27 (159 females and 81 males). The level of patients’ Knowledge, attitude and performance about diabetes were 59.36%, 38.5% and 51.35%, respectively. There was a positive significant relationship between patients’ level of knowledge and their educational level. The attitude score was lower in patients without family history. Moreover, better performance level was observed in females and in patients treated with insulin plus oral antidiabetic agents. Conclusion: Results of the present study indicat ethe low level of KAP among diabetic patients about self-care and proper education of diabetic patients by regular programs can lead to better control, prevention of disease progress and decrease in health system costs. Conflict of interest: non declared