Knowledge on Diabetes among Adults in the Kwahu South District

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2015-02-23
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An estimated 371 million people are believed to be living with Diabetes worldwide but this figure is expected to rise to 552 million by 2030. In the Kwahu South District of Ghana, Diabetes is one of the top 10 causes of Out Patient Department (OPD) attendance. Yet, it is unclear as to the level of knowledge on diabetes among the people. This study assessed the knowledge on diabetes among adults in the Kwahu South District of Ghana. Methods A community based cross-sectional and descriptive study was conducted in February and March 2013 in three sub-districts (Kwahu Praso, Mpraeso and Asakraka). A total of 423 respondents (18 years and over) were randomly sampled from households in the selected communities. Data was collected by interviewing respondents with a structured questionnaire on the: definition, risk factors, signs and symptoms, complications and prevention of diabetes. Four hundred and nine (409) completed questionnaires were statistically analyzed with STATA version 11 using chi-square, multivariate logistic regression and frequencies. The total mark for each respondent was divided by 26 (maximum mark) and then multiplied by 100% to get a knowledge score. Based on the researcher’s own discretion, knowledge score was categorized as: poor (below 50%), average (50-75%) and good (above 75%). Results Although majority of the respondents (77%) had heard of diabetes, only 6% knew that diabetes was associated with defects in insulin leading to high blood sugar. High intake of sugar was the common risk factor stated by the respondents (79%). 36% of the respondents knew diabetes could cause complications with eye disease being the common complication mentioned. Over 50% of the respondents (irrespective of their diabetes status) thought diabetes could be cured. Generally, knowledge on diabetes was poor with majority (76%) having a knowledge score below 50%. The knowledge on diabetes was significantly associated with the person living with diabetes and having a higher educational level (p<0.005). iv Conclusion The findings of this study have revealed inadequate knowledge on diabetes among adults in the district. More health education is therefore advocated to increase awareness and knowledge on all aspects of diabetes. This will help the people to live healthy lifestyles and also contribute to efforts towards the prevention and control of diabetes in the district.
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A Thesis Submitted to the Department Of Community Health, College Of Health Sciences in Partial Fulfillment of the Requirements for the Award of Mph Degree In Health Education and Promotion, 2014
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