Self-esteem as a characteristic of adherence to diabetes and dental self-care regimens
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M C Kneckt1, S M Keinänen-Kiukaanniemi, M L Knuuttila
1Institute of Dentistry, University of Oulu, Finland. mkneckt@hotmail.com
Background, Aims:
There are biological associations between diabetes control and oral infections. We have also found psychological associations between diabetes self-care and oral health behavior. The aim of this study was to evaluate whether self-esteem can determine diabetes adherence and oral health behavior, both of with require daily, persistent self-care.
Method:
Cross-sectional data on 149 IDDM patients was collected by means of a quantitative self-completed questionnaire.
Results:
High self-esteem was found to relate to good adherence with exercise regimens (p=0.005) and adjustment of insulin doses (p=0.040). These associations were also found when standardized for socio-demographic variables and HbA1c-level. In the dental sphere, logistic regression analysis showed an association between self-esteem and frequency of tooth brushing.
Conclusions:
It can be concluded that self-esteem may be a common psychological factor influencing diabetes and dental self-care. Strengthening patients' self-esteem could help patients to maintain daily self-care.
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