KNOWLEDGE AND PERCEPTIONS OF DIABETES IN URBAN AND SEMI URBAN POPULATION OF PESHAWAR, PAKISTAN
Abstract
Background: Diabetes mellitus is a major health issue in Pakistan. The aim of this study was to evaluatethe knowledge and perceptions of diabetes in a sample population of Peshawar. Methods: This crosssectional, descriptive study was carried out in seven different localities of Peshawar. A sample of 305residents were interviewed aged from 15–60 years and above, using a questionnaire specifically designedand translated into Urdu language for convenience of selected subjects. Results: Knowledge of diabeteswas suboptimal. The mean percentages of correct responses to questions regarding three classicalsymptoms and given complications were 47.1% and 30.8%. Excessive sugar intake, obesity, familyhistory, lack of physical activities and stress were acknowledged by 46.2%, 42.3%, 39.3%, 33.4%, and31.8% of the subjects respectively. Presence of family history and level of education were recognised tobe associated with more knowledge. Conclusion: There is lack of awareness of major risk factors andsome complications of diabetes mellitus. Level of education is a significant predictor regardingknowledge of diabetes and its prevention. Prevalence of diabetes has increased in Pakistan.Keywords: Diabetes, Knowledge, Perceptions, PeshawarReferences
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