Knowledge, attitudes and perceptions of people with type 2 diabetes as related to self-management practices: results of a cross-sectional study conducted in Luzon, Philippines

OBJECTIVE: This study measured factors that could be associated with self-management practices of people with type 2 diabetes from two different health systems in the Philippines in terms of diabetes knowledge, attitudes, perceptions of support and self-efficacy, and obesity/adiposity.

METHODS: Knowledge, attitudes, perceptions, obesity/adiposity measures, adherence to medications, diabetes diet, and exercise and the number of diabetes consultations of people with type 2 diabetes utilizing services of two different health systems were collected. Analysis of variance was used to determine differences in knowledge, attitudes, perceptions, obesity/adiposity, and demographic characteristics according to: proper/under-utilization of services; adherence/non-adherence to medications, diet and exercise; high/low perceived self-efficacy; and the health systems. Logistic regression was done to identify any associations with obesity/adiposity, self-management practices, and perceived self-efficacy.

RESULTS: There were 549 respondents. Differences in knowledge, attitudes, perceptions, and some demographic characteristics between the two health systems and between those with high/low self-efficacy perceptions were significant. Perceived self-efficacy was significantly associated with all four self-management practices.

CONCLUSIONS/INTERPRETATIONS: People consulting at the health service with a more supportive system had better perceived self-efficacy and self-care behavior. Higher knowledge, attitude, and perception scores were noted among those with better self-efficacy perceptions, which was associated with better self-care behavior.