[Illness-specific knowledge, coping with illness and metabolic control in insulin-injecting diabetic patients in a random city population]

Area of Science:

• Endocrinology
• Diabetes Mellitus Research
• Patient Education

Background:

• Assessing patient knowledge is crucial for effective diabetes management.
• Understanding knowledge gaps can guide educational interventions.
• Insulin-treated patients require comprehensive knowledge for self-care.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the diabetes knowledge of insulin-treated patients under 60.
• To identify specific areas of knowledge deficiency.
• To correlate knowledge levels with clinical parameters and demographics.

Main Methods:

• A standardized interview-based knowledge test was administered.
• 186 insulin-treated patients (81% of 229) were assessed.
• Data on glycosylated hemoglobin, age, BMI, and education were collected.

Main Results:

• Knowledge errors positively correlated with HbA1c, age, and BMI.
• Type 1 diabetes patients had fewer errors than Type 2.
• Knowledge gaps existed in hyperglycemic coma, acetone, and obesity; late complications knowledge was high.
• Many patients lacked knowledge of daily carbohydrate units, yet metabolic control was similar.
• Patients desired more information on modern therapies, insulin pumps, and nutrition.

Conclusions:

• Diabetes knowledge varies significantly among insulin-treated patients.
• Targeted educational strategies are needed for specific knowledge deficits.
• Patient education level is a key factor influencing diabetes knowledge.