---

SELF-MANAGEMENT AND SUPPORT SYSTEM AMONG PEOPLE LIVING WITH TYPE II DIABETES IN A GENERAL HOSPITAL IN NORTH CENTRAL NIGERIA

Samuel Segun ABEGUNDE, Oluwaseyi Abiodun AKPOR, Risikat Idowu FADARE, Olubukola Esther ABIODUN - OJO, Anthonia Iyabo OKURUMEH

---

Download PDF

---

Abstract

Introduction: Globally, DM is the fourth cause of deaths in both genders with an average of 6.4% of people living with diabetes and it is becoming a concern in many parts of the world. Diabetes mellitus (DM) has been considered a risk factor for cardiovascular and renal diseases most especially in the developing nations. The rising number of persons diagnosed with type 2 diabetes is a global concern as it accounts for around 90% of all diabetes cases. The study investigated the use of self-management and support system among people living with type II diabetes (PLWD) in a General Hospital, Ilorin, Northcentral Nigeria.

Methods:  A descriptive and cross-sectional research designs was adopted. Two hundred and forty (240) participants were purposively recruited and a structured questionnaire, designed from previous studies and literature was used for data collection. Data was analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics.

Results: Findings from the study revealed that 87.9% of the participants were females, 68.3% were married, 41.3% have hypertension as comorbidity while over 50% have family history of diabetes. Almost all (95.4%) of participants had poor practice of self-management of diabetes and support system. Highest barriers to self-management mentioned by the participants were choice of food, availability of food, finance and limited educational materials. 

Conclusion: Hence, healthcare professionals especially nurses need to ensure continuous advocacy at the community level so as to encourage family and community involvement in the care of PLWD thereby improving their treatment adherence and minimize complications.

Keywords: Diabetes, self-management, support system, practice, barrier, knowledge