Management of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus by Diabetic Clients In Nyandarua South Sub –County, Kenya

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Date
2017Author
Muoki, Francis M.
Kabiru, Ephantus W.
Wanyoro, Anthony K.
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Purpose: Type 2 diabetes mellitus, (T2DM) is the most common form of diabetes,
characterized by disorders of insulin resistance, insulin secretion, obesity, lipid abnormalities,
hypertension, and cardiovascular diseases. The marked increase of type 2 diabetes mellitus
(T2DM) necessitates active development and implementation of efficient prevention
programs as the condition is a major public health concern in the world. This study sought to
determine management of T2DM by diabetic clients in Nyandarua South sub-County, Kenya.
Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional facility based design was used. The study population
comprised 294 T2DM clients. Relationship between levels of knowledge on the
recommended management interventions, socio-demographic factors and management
practices were examined using chi-square and bivariate analyses. A P≤ 0.05 was considered
significant.
Results: Majority of participants (83.3%) had never been screened for DM except at the
point of diagnosis. A small proportion of the participants (28%) had good knowledge on
T2DM management interventions. Practices applied by the clients in managing T2DM
included diet, exercise, taking diabetic medications and monthly weight monitoring.
Conclusions made from the study are that there was low level of knowledge on T2DM
management interventions, practices for management of T2DM that participants applied
included diabetic diet, exercise, drug therapy and weight monitoring though fairly
undertaken. Level of education and income significantly influenced clients’ management of
T2DM.
Recommendations: The national and Nyandarua County government’s Department of
Health to improve on creation of awareness on T2DM management interventions and
diversify the media so as to reach most people. This should be standardized across the health
facilities in order to improve the level of knowledge on management interventions for T2DM
among diabetic clients.