Association of Knowledge & Life Style Modification with Control of Hba1c Level in Patients with Type-2 Diabetes Mellitus

Abstract

Background: Diabetes mellitus is a major public health problem associated with significant morbidity and mortality. Adequate knowledge and lifestyle modification play an important role in achieving optimal glycemic control and preventing diabetes-related complications. This study aimed to determine the association between knowledge and lifestyle modification with control of HbA1c among patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus. Methods: This descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted in the Department of Medicine, Combined Military Hospital (CMH), Sylhet over a period of 06 months. A total of 150 patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus were selected by purposive and convenient sampling methods. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire regarding sociodemographic profile, clinical characteristics, diabetes-related knowledge and lifestyle modification practices. Glycemic control was assessed by HbA1c level. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 25.0. Results: The majority of patients were male (66.7%) and aged ≤40 years (41.3%). Most patients had uncontrolled HbA1c levels (84.0%). Knowledge regarding HbA1c was low, as only 20.0% knew that HbA1c reflects long-term blood glucose control. Regular physical exercise was reported by 52.7% of patients, while only 13.3% monitored blood glucose regularly. Significant associations were found between controlled HbA1c and knowledge about HbA1c (p=0.004), diabetic diet adherence (p=0.048), regular physical exercise (p=0.021) and self-monitoring of blood glucose (p=0.043). Conclusion: Poor diabetes-related knowledge and inadequate lifestyle modification were significantly associated with uncontrolled HbA1c levels among patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus.