Self-Care Practices among Diabetes Patients in Addis Ababa: A Qualitative Study

Abstract

BackgroundSelf-care practices that include self-monitoring of blood sugar level, diet management, physical exercise, adherence to medications, and foot care are the cornerstones of diabetes management. However, very little is known about self-care in developing countries where the prevalence of diabetes is increasing.ObjectiveThe objective of this study was to describe self-care practices among individuals with type II diabetes in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.MethodsA qualitative method was used to gather data from type II diabetes patients. Patients were recruited from the outpatient diabetes clinics of two public hospitals in Addis Ababa. Data were collected using a semi structured interview guide. A thematic analysis approach was used to process the data.ResultsOverall self-care practices were not adequate. Most patients reported irregular self-monitoring of blood sugar. Dietary and physical exercise recommendations were inadequately practiced by most of the participants. Most patients better adhered to medication prescriptions. Patients generally lack proper information/knowledge regarding the importance of self-care and how it should be implemented. Based on reported behavior we identified three main categories of patients; which are those ‘endeavor to be compliant’, ‘confused’ and ‘negligent’.ConclusionDiabetes patients largely depend on prescribed medications to control their blood sugar level. The importance of proper self-care practices for effective management of diabetes is not adequately emphasized in diabetes care centers and patients lack sufficient knowledge for proper self-care.

Evaluation of the Involvement of Pharmacists in Diabetes Self-Care: A Review From the Economic Perspective

“…However, this proves to be difficult as the key to effective management lies in consistent cooperation of the patient. Generally, complications of diabetes manifest when there is inappropriate compliance to self-care recommendations which stems from poor self-discipline and education followed by lack of support from family members (6). Thus, it is important for the patients to realize that their self-confidence and self-discipline promote better self-care and overall improved health outcomes (7, 8).…”

“…Thus, it is important for the patients to realize that their self-confidence and self-discipline promote better self-care and overall improved health outcomes (7, 8). Self-care components comprises of self-monitoring of blood glucose (SMBG), diet control, optimum physical exercise, adherence to medication/s and proper foot and eye care (6). …”

“…This continuous monitoring is expected to alert the patient of any discrepancies in the level and prompt to take appropriate measures. However, this vital component of self-care is generally missing in diabetic patients (6). In this Ethiopian study nearly half of study subjects checked their blood glucose level only during follow up visits (every 3–4 months) or when they feel ill (6).…”

“…However, this vital component of self-care is generally missing in diabetic patients (6). In this Ethiopian study nearly half of study subjects checked their blood glucose level only during follow up visits (every 3–4 months) or when they feel ill (6). This emphasizes that the understanding and motivation of patients about SMBG is crucial and the patient needs to be highly motivated for regular checking of blood glucose.…”

“…According to Tol et al (3) diet control adherence and exercise are significantly associated with glycemic control. Among the self-care practices, dietary control was considered the most essential component as majority avoid ingestion of table sugars, sweet drink and foods (6). Contrary to diet control, physical exercise showed a negative result.…”