Knowledge, Attitude and Practice of Insulin Use of Diabetic Patients in India

Abstract

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a group of common metabolic disorders that share the phenotype of hyperglycemia. India is emerging as the world diabetic capital. Insulin is a therapeutic option to treat either type 1 and type 2 DM. Inadequate awareness about the use of insulin is likely to influence its acceptance and adherence. The present study was done to assess the knowledge, attitude, and practice regarding insulin use among diabetic patients at Victoria Hospital, Bangalore, India. Knowledge, attitude, and practice of sixty diabetic patients (either inpatients or outpatients) were assessed by using a validated questionnaire consisting of 24 items. Scores were allotted to each question and evaluated after applying appropriate statistical tests. The mean age of the patients was 53.51±6.48 years (58.33% males). The mean knowledge score was 9.06±1.88 out of 22, attitude score was 4.78±1.37 out of 12 and practice score was 7.75±1.24 out of 11. The mean score of attitude was better in females compared to male patients (5.32±1.34 vs. 4.4±1.28). Male patients scored 38.57% compared to female patients (41.33%) for the question regarding symptoms of hypoglycemia. 57.14% of male patients and 72% of female patients carried simple carbohydrates when going out. Despite good practice scores, the knowledge and attitude scores regarding insulin use were inadequate. Potential adverse effects of insulin can be avoided and better knowledge, attitude, and practice can be achieved by providing proper education to patients. Keywords: knowledge, attitude, practice, diabetic, insulin