Diabetes management: Self-management education and support program evaluations in Jeddah, KSA

Education and self-management are critical for effective diabetes management. Diabetes self-management education and support facilitate learning of necessary knowledge and skills, by incorporating patient needs and evidence-based standards to improve outcomes. However, adherence to self-management is challenging because of insufficient education. This study assessed self-care management, a standard of care for patients with diabetes mellitus, in Jeddah, KSA.

This cross-sectional study examined self-care practices among patients with diabetes at a tertiary center in Jeddah, KSA. Data were gathered through an online survey conducted from December 2023 to April 2024. Participants included patients 18 years or older with diabetes at King Abdulaziz University Hospital. Healthcare workers and patients without diabetes were excluded. We collected information on demographics; disease duration; medications; adherence; complications; and knowledge and education regarding diabetes management. A revised version of the Diabetes Self-Management Questionnaire was used to explore self-care activities in diabetes management. Statistical analysis with the chi-squared test for qualitative variables, Mann-Whitney U test for quantitative non-parametric variables, and Spearman's test for correlation was performed in SPSS 26. P < 0.05 indicated statistical significance.

Knowledge regarding hyperglycemia management was adequate in 70 % of participants, but only 45 % were aware of how to adjust medications during illnesses. Physical activity levels were low, and 60 % of participants reported minimal exercise. Participants receiving intensive insulin, compared with those not receiving this therapy, showed a stronger correlation between knowledge and self-care practices (Spearman's correlation coefficient = 0.18; P = 0.002). Having more frequent interactions with healthcare providers was associated with higher self-management scores.

Patients with diabetes in KSA had moderate knowledge yet showed knowledge gaps in illness management. Targeted education, particularly for young and newly diagnosed patients, would improve self-care and health outcomes.