Health Management of Diabetes Risk Group in Ban Muang Whan : A Qualitative Research Perspective

Abstract

Purpose: To explore health management of diabetes risk group

Design:  Qualitative research

Methods: The research participants comprised of 75 people, including people, who were diabetes risk group and their families, sub-district health promoting hospital staff, community leaders, village health volunteers, monks, teachers and food vendors in Ban Muang Whan community. The research instruments included 1) the in depth-interviewed guideline, 2) the group discussion guideline, 3) the brain storm guideline, 4) the observation guideline, and 5) the field note. Data were analyzed using content analysis method.

Findings: People, who were diabetes risk group, provided self-care including controlled diet, controlled body weight, exercise, stress management, decreased alcohol consumption, reduced smoking, and annual diabetes screening. Family members supported the participants who were diabetes risk group by reducing burden, joining exercise, encouraging and reminding them to change unhealthy behaviors. Other community members provided suggestions and information on health care. Nevertheless, there were some problems and barriers, including inaccessible diabetes screening services, lack of facility, no leaders, lack of motivation, and interrupted exercise.

Conclusion: Diabetes risk groups and their families were responsible for their health management. Sub-district health promoting hospital staffs provided health check-up services. Community leaders recognized the problems, provided support to solve the problems, and were role models for healthcare. Village health volunteers provided monitoring and information on health care for participants who are at risk.