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Research Journal of Medical Sciences

ISSN: Online 1993-6095
ISSN: Print 1815-9346
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Exploring Self‐Care Behaviors in Rural Type 2 Diabetes Patients: A Study in Srikakulam District, Andhra Pradesh

Jada Roopini, Ponnada Sarath Chandra, Paramita Roy, Saptarishi Bose and Sipra Komal Jena
Page: 116-120 | Received 25 Jul 2024, Published online: 09 Sep 2024

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https://doi.org/10.36478/10.36478/makrjms.2024.10.116.120

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Abstract

Diabetes mellitus poses a substantial health challenge globally, particularly in low‐and middle‐income countries such as India, where its prevalence is rising. This cross‐sectional study aimed to evaluate self‐care practices among rural type 2 diabetic patients in Srikakulam district, Andhra Pradesh, India. Conducted in the rural field practice area of Great Eastern Medical College, Singupuram, the study enrolled 130 diabetic patients aged 18‐80 years, with diabetes duration exceeding one year. Data collection spanned May to June 2023, utilizing a semi‐structured interview schedule based on the Summary of Diabetes Self‐Care Activities (SDSCA) questionnaire. This tool was adapted into Telugu, piloted and administered by trained interviewers to assess demographic characteristics, diabetes history and self‐care behaviours encompassing diet, exercise, blood glucose testing, foot care and smoking. The findings revealed a predominantly female participant base (63.1%), with a significant proportion aged over 51 years (46.2%) and predominantly educated up to the primary level (38.5%). Most participants were engaged in sedentary occupations (82.3%) and belonged to the upper‐middle socioeconomic class, residing in nuclear families. Diabetes duration was primarily 1‐5 years (90%), with prevalent comorbidities including hypertension (43%) and arthritis (26.2%). Self‐care practices varied among participants, with notable gaps identified in adherence to dietary recommendations, physical activity levels, blood glucose testing frequency and foot care routines. Statistical analysis highlighted significant associations between better diet scores and younger age groups (25‐59 years), living in joint families, and lacking family support for self‐care (p<0.05). Notably, regular blood glucose testing was significantly associated with receiving treatment from the private sector (p=0.049). In conclusion, this study underscores critical deficiencies in self‐care practices among rural type 2 diabetic patients in Srikakulam district, Andhra Pradesh. Addressing these gaps through targeted educational interventions focusing on lifestyle modifications and enhancing family support is crucial for improving diabetes management in rural settings. Further research should explore these findings in broader contexts and evaluate the efficacy of interventions aimed at enhancing self‐care practices among rural diabetic populations.

How to cite this article:

Jada Roopini, Ponnada Sarath Chandra, Paramita Roy, Saptarishi Bose and Sipra Komal Jena. Exploring Self‐Care Behaviors in Rural Type 2 Diabetes Patients: A Study in Srikakulam District, Andhra Pradesh.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.36478/10.36478/makrjms.2024.10.116.120
URL: https://www.makhillpublications.co/view-article/1815-9346/10.36478/makrjms.2024.10.116.120