Publication:

Effectiveness of health education in diabetes self-care: a quasi-experimental study in urban and rural populations

Background Diabetes mellitus is a chronic condition caused by insulin deficiency or ineffectiveness, requiring comprehensive self-care management. Effective self-care is essential to prevent complications and manage the disease effectively, particularly in addressing the challenges associated with lifestyle modifications.

Methods This cross-sectional study assessed the impact of educational interventions on self-care management among urban and rural patients with diabetes. Conducted with 129 urban and 63 rural participants from the field practice areas of S. Nijalinappa Medical College, Bagalkot, data were collected using the diabetes self-management questionnaire. After administering a health education intervention, changes in self-care practices were evaluated.

Results The study population included predominantly older males, with most participants identifying as Hindu (57% rural, 69% urban), married (85.7% rural, 82.9% urban), unemployed (44% rural, 35.7% urban), and illiterate (46.5% rural, 41.3% urban). Post-intervention, significant improvements were observed in diabetes self-care management in both urban and rural participants.

Conclusions Educational interventions are instrumental in empowering individuals to adopt effective self-care practices and prevent complications associated with diabetes. Tailored health education programs focusing on self-care management are essential for addressing the unique needs of urban and rural diabetic populations.