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SPIRITUALITY ASSOCIATED WITH MANAGEMENT OF TYPE 2 DIABETES MELLITUS AMONG PEOPLE LIVING WITH DIABETES IN EKITI STATE

ARISON, E. O., OGUNKORODE, A. O., AKPOR, O. A.

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Abstract

This study explored the association between spirituality and the management of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). It aimed to assess the respondents' knowledge of T2DM and investigate the impact of spirituality on managing the condition. The research questions focused on the level of knowledge about T2DM and the influence of spirituality on its management, while the hypothesis posited no significant relationship between diabetes knowledge and spirituality. A quantitative methodology was employed, targeting patients and healthcare workers in endocrinology clinics across three hospitals in Ekiti State, Nigeria. Using Taro Yamane's formula, a sample size of 242 was determined from a population of 615, with data collected via a structured questionnaire. The questionnaire assessed socio-demographic characteristics, knowledge of diabetes, and spirituality, using the Duke University Religion Index (DUREL) and the FACIT-SP spiritual well-being scale. The study revealed a generally good understanding of diabetes among respondents, with high awareness of risk factors and management practices. A substantial proportion reported strong spiritual beliefs, which played a significant role in coping with stress and adherence to treatment. However, regression analysis showed no significant relationship between knowledge of diabetes and spirituality, with only 10% of variance in spiritual scores explained by knowledge domains. The findings suggest that while spirituality is integral to many patients' lives, it does not significantly influence diabetes management knowledge, failing to reject the null hypothesis. These results highlight the need for further research into other factors affecting the role of spirituality in managing chronic conditions like T2DM.

Keywords: Spirituality, Management, Diabetes Mellitus, Type 2 Diabetes