Knowledge Attitude Practices and associated factors towards glycemic control among geriatric diabetes mellites patients

Abstract

Diabetes mellitus is increasing worldwide and Iraq is showing an increasing trend in diabetes with a prevalence that ranges from 8.5% to 13.9% following in the footsteps of other countries in the region. Assessing knowledge, attitude, and diabetic practice are vital to manage and treat the disease in elderly as this would contribute to the distinguishing of any gaps in the existing knowledge, and direct educational programs to ensure a better management and practice. Objective: To explore knowledge, attitudes and practices in a sample geriatric population regarding glycemic control of diabetes mellites. Patients and Method: A cross-sectional survey conducted in three health centers in Baghdad on a convenient sample of 225 geriatric patients. Knowledge, attitude, and practice were calculated using a structured questionnaire with two-degree-likert scale.  Categorical data were presented in frequencies and percentages. Chi-square was applied to illustrate the significance of the association between variables, and binary logistic regression was used to calculate odd ratios. In all statistical analysis a p-value ≤5% considered significant Results: The average age was 68.2±5.4 years. Family and friends were the main source of information. The average of glycated hemoglobin was 8.19±0.9 around 138 (61.3%) had uncontrolled DM. Good knowledge, attitude and practice was reported among 47.1%, 47.1% and 46.7% of the studied sample respectively. The odds of having good knowledge, attitude and practice were higher among those with higher education, controlled DM, urban residency and positive family history.Conclusion:A structured nutrition and health education program should be implemented on each geriatric-health facility visit.  Community based behavioral change communication might also be needed to expand the level of knowledge towards diabetic mellitus, enhance attitude and eventually improve practice.