To Assess the Knowledge & Practice about Diabetes Mellitus among Diabetic Patients of Rural Field Practice Area, North Karnataka: A Cross-Sectional Survey.

Introduction: Diabetes is a chronic disease that occurs either when the pancreas does not produce enough insulin or when the body cannot effectively use its insulin. According to the World Health Organization report, India today heads the world with over 32 million diabetic patients, and this number is projected to increase to 79.4 million by the year 2030. Recent surveys indicate that diabetes now affects a staggering 16% of the urban population and 5-8% of the rural population in India. Objectives: To study the diabetic profile & to assess knowledge about Diabetes mellitus among diabetic patients of Rural field practice areas. Methodology: A cross-sectional survey was conducted at the Rural health Training Centre, Ukkali, under the department of Community Medicine, among the diabetic patients attending the Diabetic clinic for a period of six months. A Pre-designed, pre-tested questionnaire was used to assess the socio-demographic profile of patients, profile of diabetes & knowledge about diabetes mellitus. Results: A total of 110 diabetic patients with a mean age of 66yrs ± 6 (M 52%, F 48%) showed irregularity in treatment due to the cost of treatment & frequent changing of treatment providers (40%). The majority of patients think that eating excess sugar causes diabetes (72%), it runs in the family (48%) & around 60% are not having any idea about hypoglycemia. Overall knowledge found was poor. Conclusion: There is a need to increase awareness about chronic diseases like diabetes mellitus among people by strengthening the IEC activities in PHCs, RHTCs & Private hospitals because this will reduce the suffering of people not only physically but also economically. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]