Knowledge and perceptions of diabetes in urban and semi urban population of Peshawar, Pakistan.

BACKGROUND

Diabetes mellitus is a major health issue in Pakistan. The aim of this study was to evaluate the knowledge and perceptions of diabetes in a sample population of Peshawar.

METHODS

This cross-sectional, descriptive study was carried out in seven different localities of Peshawar. A sample of 305 residents were interviewed aged from 15-60 years and above, using a questionnaire specifically designed and translated into Urdu language for convenience of selected subjects.

RESULTS

Knowledge of diabetes was suboptimal. The mean percentages of correct responses to questions regarding three classical symptoms and given complications were 47.1% and 30.8%. Excessive sugar intake, obesity, family history, lack of physical activities and stress were acknowledged by 46.2%, 42.3%, 39.3%, 33.4%, and 31.8% of the subjects respectively. Presence of family history and level of education were recognised to be associated with more knowledge.

CONCLUSION

There is lack of awareness of major risk factors and some complications of diabetes mellitus. Level of education is a significant predictor regarding knowledge of diabetes and its prevention. Prevalence of diabetes has increased in Pakistan.