Assessment of the Effect of Diabetes Education and Knowledge on Management Outcomes

Abstract

Objective: Diabetes education is a key component of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) management. However, evidence from Nigeria on the effectiveness of diabetes education remains limited. This study evaluated the impact of a structured education program on diabetes knowledge, glycemic control, and some metabolic parameters among adults with T2DM. Materials and Methods: This single-group interventional study consecutively recruited T2DM adults attending a tertiary diabetes clinic. The intervention was initially planned with a three months follow-up but was terminated at four weeks due to substantial loss to follow-up. Participants received three structured diabetes self-management education and support (DSMES) sessions at baseline (week 0), week 2 and week 4. Diabetes knowledge was assessed at baseline and at four weeks using the Michigan Brief Diabetes Knowledge Test. Sociodemographic and clinical data were obtained from structured proformas and medical records. Data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics at P< 0.05. Results: A total of 118 participants were enrolled (mean age 58.25± 14.26 years; 63.3% female). At baseline, only 36% achieved good diabetes knowledge (≥ 65%); this increased significantly to 85% after the education program (P= 0.01). Significant improvements were also observed in fasting blood glucose (P= 0.01) and blood pressure (P= 0.04). Independent predictors of good diabetes knowledge included shorter disease duration (< 10 years), regular exercise, and better short-term glycemic control. Conclusion: Structured diabetes education significantly improved diabetes knowledge and short-term clinical outcomes. Incorporating structured education into routine diabetes care may help reduce the burden of T2DM in Nigeria.