Factors related to self-care behavior of patients with diabetes in Lardlumkaew Hospital, Lardlumkaew, Pathumthani

Abstract

        In Thailand, the number and severity of diabetes cases has increased at national and local levels. It is, therefore, essential to encourage and improve the self-care of patients with diabetes to reduce the complications and severity of suffering associated with this disease. The cross-sectional study was conducted to identify factors associated with self- care behavior of patients with diabetes at Lardlumkaew Hospital. Data were collected using a self-administered questionnaire from 146 diabetes patients in the Out Patient Department. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, Chi-square test, Pearson's correlation analysis and multiple regression analysis. 

         Most participants were females aged between 40 to 50 years. A majority had completed primary education, was employed, and had had diabetes for more than five years. Most participants had good knowledge and a good attitude toward self-care behavior. The majority of them practiced self-care to a fair degree. Statistically significant self-care behavioral factors included knowledge about diabetes and self-care (p < 0.001) and attitude towards self-care (p < 0.001). No statistically significant association was found between patient characteristics and self-care behavior. Results from multiple regression analysis revealed that knowledge about diabetes and attitude toward self-care significantly explained self-care behavior by 26.3%. Findings from this study suggest that public health campaigns should continue to focus on knowledge about diabetes and promote a positive attitude of self-care in patients with diabetes.