Evaluation of the Impact of Health Education Programs on Diabetic Patients' Behavior

Abstract

Background: Diabetes mellitus is a chronic metabolic disorder that needs to be managed on a constant basis in order to avoid complications and improve glycemic control. Lack of knowledge and unhealthy behaviors are major contributing factors to poor outcomes in patients with diabetes mellitus. The aim of this study was to assess the effect of a structured health education program on behavioral change and glycemic control in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus.

Methods: A quasi-experimental pre-post design was employed on adult patients with type 2 diabetes (n=120) attending outpatient facilities. The pre-test included socio-demographic information, diabetes knowledge, and self-care practices (dietary compliance, exercise, medication, and self-blood glucose monitoring). Glycemic control was measured by assessing glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) levels. The intervention comprised a structured health education program conducted over six sessions and six weeks, employing lectures, group discussions, demonstrations, and health education booklets. The post-test was administered three months after the completion of the health education program. Statistical analysis was carried out employing the paired t-test and chi-square test, with a p-value of <0.05.

Results: Post-intervention analysis showed a statistically significant increase in mean knowledge scores (p < 0.001). Adherence to recommended dietary habits rose from 45% to 78%, exercise habits from 30% to 65%, medication regularity from 60% to 88%, and regular blood glucose monitoring from 35% to 70% (p < 0.05). Mean HbA1c values significantly reduced from 8.9% ± 1.2 to 7.4% ± 0.9 (p < 0.001) after the intervention. Improvement in behavior was more evident in patients with recent diagnoses than those with established disease.

Conclusion: The structured health education program significantly improved self-care behaviors and glycemic control among patients with type 2 diabetes. Early and continuous educational interventions are recommended as essential components of diabetes management to enhance long-term behavioral adherence and reduce complications.