The knowledge, attitudes, and self-care behaviors of diabetic patients receiving services at the Primary Care Unit, Yang Riang Subdistrict Health Promotion Hospital, Khlong Mae Lai Subdistrict, Mueang Kamphaeng Phet District, Kamphaeng Phet Province

Abstract

This study is a descriptive, cross-sectional research aimed at assessing the levels of knowledge, attitudes, and self-care behaviors among diabetic patients receiving services at the primary care unit of Yang Riang Health Promoting Hospital, Khlong Mae Lai Sub-district, Mueang Kamphaeng Phet District, Kamphaeng Phet Province. Data collection was conducted from May 1, 2024, to June 30, 2024, using a questionnaire designed to evaluate knowledge, attitudes, and self-care behaviors of diabetic patients. The questionnaire demonstrated a Cronbach's alpha reliability coefficient of 0.76. Descriptive statistics, including frequency, mean, percentage, and standard deviation, were used to analyze the data.

The study results revealed that the majority of participants were female 86.7%, with 36.7% aged 70 years or older. The average age was 63.9 years (SD = 13.2), with a minimum age of 39 and a maximum age of 88. Most participants were married 80.0% and had completed primary education 90.0%. Regarding occupation, 33.3% were unemployed and engaged in agriculture. A significant proportion 33.3% reported a monthly income of less than or equal to 5,000 Thai Baht. In terms of body mass index (BMI), 40.0% were classified as overweight (BMI 25.0–29.9, Level 1 obesity). The mean duration of diabetes was 9.4 years (SD = 7.6), ranging from 1 to 30 years. For glycemic control, the majority 56.7% had an HbA1c level of less than or equal to 7.0% (indicating good control). Participants demonstrated the highest level of knowledge regarding diabetes in areas such as dietary practices, food control, and appropriate self-care strategies for maintaining blood sugar levels, with 100.0% achieving correct responses. Attitudes were most favorable toward the belief that achieving target blood sugar levels can delay chronic complications, exercise can improve diabetes control, and attending scheduled medical appointments is essential, with 96.7% agreeing. Regarding self-care behaviors, participants exhibited the highest adherence in areas of dietary practices, exercise, medication adherence, and preventive behaviors to avoid complications, with 100.0% reporting consistent engagement in these behaviors. These findings suggest that optimal self-care behaviors can delay the onset of complications, reduce health burdens, and enhance long-term quality of life. Family support, community involvement, and healthcare system support were identified as crucial factors in promoting sustainable health for diabetic patients.