Authors
Ahmed S. D. , Omuemu V. O. , Rafiu M. O.
Abstract
Background: Diabetic complications significantly impact health and quality of life. Understanding patients'
knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) regarding these complications is crucial for promoting self-management
and preventing or delaying their onset. Objectives: This study aimed to assess the KAP of diabetic patients toward
diabetic complications and explore potential associations with socio-demographic factors and healthcare access.
Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted in the outpatient department of the University of Benin Teaching
Hospital. Data was collected through validated questionnaires and interviews, covering knowledge about common
complications, attitudes toward self-care and prevention, and self-reported practices related to diet, exercise, and
medication adherence. Statistical analysis: Data was entered into the SPSS spreadsheet after checking for
correctness and completeness. The analyzed data was presented in tables and charts. Tests of significance were
carried out using Chi-square tests. Results: 100 diabetic adult patients, comprising 39 males, and 61 females,
attending the University of Benin Teaching Hospital, Benin City consultant outpatient department were studied. The
ages of the respondents ranged between 35-79 years with a mean age of 59.04 (SD 10.7). Thirty-two (32%) of the
subjects had a tertiary level of education, while eighteen (18%) had secondary education, thirty-seven attained
primary education and thirteen respondents had no formal education. Of all the respondents, 62% had a good
overall understanding of diabetes mellitus. 72% of the respondents had good knowledge related to diabetic
complications. Of the total respondents, 94% used prescribed anti-diabetic medications while 54% possessed a
personal blood sugar monitoring device. While 48% of the participants were obese, 37% were overweight. There
was a significant association between level of educational attainment and self-care of the re
knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) regarding these complications is crucial for promoting self-management
and preventing or delaying their onset. Objectives: This study aimed to assess the KAP of diabetic patients toward
diabetic complications and explore potential associations with socio-demographic factors and healthcare access.
Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted in the outpatient department of the University of Benin Teaching
Hospital. Data was collected through validated questionnaires and interviews, covering knowledge about common
complications, attitudes toward self-care and prevention, and self-reported practices related to diet, exercise, and
medication adherence. Statistical analysis: Data was entered into the SPSS spreadsheet after checking for
correctness and completeness. The analyzed data was presented in tables and charts. Tests of significance were
carried out using Chi-square tests. Results: 100 diabetic adult patients, comprising 39 males, and 61 females,
attending the University of Benin Teaching Hospital, Benin City consultant outpatient department were studied. The
ages of the respondents ranged between 35-79 years with a mean age of 59.04 (SD 10.7). Thirty-two (32%) of the
subjects had a tertiary level of education, while eighteen (18%) had secondary education, thirty-seven attained
primary education and thirteen respondents had no formal education. Of all the respondents, 62% had a good
overall understanding of diabetes mellitus. 72% of the respondents had good knowledge related to diabetic
complications. Of the total respondents, 94% used prescribed anti-diabetic medications while 54% possessed a
personal blood sugar monitoring device. While 48% of the participants were obese, 37% were overweight. There
was a significant association between level of educational attainment and self-care of the re
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