Assessment of Knowledge and Awareness of Diabetic and Non-Diabetic Population Towards Diabetes Mellitus in Kaduna, Nigeria

Abstract

This study was aimed to assess the knowledge and awareness among diabetic and non diabetic Nigerian population in Kaduna state towards diabetes mellitus (DM) different knowledge domain and, to evaluate diabetic patients’ awareness towards anti-diabetic therapy, hypoglycemia management and their practical approach towards DM control. This was a cross-sectional study based on validated, self administered questionnaire. Three hundred forty (340) subjects included 33.7% diabetic subjects and 66.2% non diabetic participants attending NNPC-industrial clinic and Barau Dikko specialist hospital Kaduna, Nigeria. 78.96% of total participants have good knowledge towards DM etiology, disease monitoring (70.6%), management (57.1%), and physical control (52.7%). Average knowledge was recorded towards DM clinical manifestation (47.5%) and complication (42.4%). Low knowledge response (38.3%) towards risk problems associated with high blood pressure. 35% of diabetic participants missed some doses of their anti-diabetic drug. 34.2% of diabetic participants are not aware about hypoglycemic symptoms and 53.8% not aware about management of these symptoms. 47.9% of diabetic participants did not have eye examination and 30.8% did not have urine test. Employed participants with age group 40-60 years have significant knowledge towards DM etiology and complication (P less than 0.005). Diabetic female was significantly aware about practical management and control of DM (P less than 0.005). The study highlighted the need of people in Kaduna state in Nigeria for better health information through large scale awareness interventions regarding diabetes. In addition diabetic patient adherence to their anti-diabetic therapy can be achieved through patient counseling by clinical pharmacist or health professional.