Prevalence of Diabetes, Knowledge and Attitude of Rural Population towards Diabetes and Hypoglycaemic Event, Sudan 2013

Abstract

Introduction: The prevalence of diabetes mellitus is rising and needs adequate knowledge for its control. Objectives: The study aim was to identify prevalence of diabetes, population`s knowledge, their attitude towards hypoglycemia event and factors associated with the level of knowledge. Material and Methods: A cross sectional study was carried out in a rural area of Sudan. The study population was 3316 adult males /females above 18 years of age. Structured questionnaire was used including eighteen questions to assess the knowledge about diabetes. Knowledge scores were recorded into adequate knowledge and inadequate knowledge. Attitude of diabetic and non-diabetic population was compared. Seven independent variables were included in logistic regression model to present the factors which contributed to adequate knowledge about diabetes. Results: The study included 1423 (42.9%) males and 1893(57.1%) females. The prevalence of diabetes in rural population was 11.2%. Adequate knowledge about diabetes was 15%. Genetics and nutrition habits were recognized as risk factors of diabetes by the population, 57.2% & 46.9% respectively. Dizziness as a sign of hypoglycemia was mentioned (38.1%) followed by rigors (24.4%), sweating (21.4%) and palpitation (17.1%). Retinopathy (31.1%) and cardiovascular diseases (16.0%) were known by the study population as complications of diabetes. The response of diabetic population towards hypoglycemia event was significantly higher compared to non-diabetic, p-value 0.001. Gender, age, education, family history of diabetes, being a diabetic and smoker were contributory factors to knowledge. Conclusion: The prevalence of diabetes is increasing in rural population of Sudan. Knowledge about diabetes is low. A community based educational program is needed.