Assessement of background knowledge of diabetes mellitus in diabetic patients

Abstract

The background knowledge of diabetes was assessed in 230 newly registered diabetic patients by a questionnaire. Patients with positive family history knew better about role of heredity, diet as a mode of therapy and also regarding the long-term complications of diabetes. Similarly, educational status improved background knowledge. The duration of diabetes Improved the knowledge regarding the need for life-long treatment and possibility of eye complications. There was a uniform lack of answers on the role of exercise In the treatment of diabetes. The results of this study thus provides information about the areas in which stress should be given while evolving diabetes education programmes.