DOI: 10.36347/sasjm.2015.v01i04.003

Pages: Page: 134-140

The purpose of this study was to identify the deficiencies in Diabetes Self-Management (DSM) by a modified Diabetes self-care activities (SDSCA) questionnaire, Implementation of a structured DSME program and study its impact on self-care behaviors, diabetes control, lipids and physical parameters. In this prospective cohort study, 102 patients of Type 1 and Type 2 DM were given a modified SDSCA questionnaire and their baseline physical and biochemical parameters were recorded. A structured DSME program including individual and group therapy was implemented by our team. 3 months later they were reassessed for effect on self-care behaviors, physical and biochemical parameters in the Pre Intervention and Post Intervention period. The SDSCA parameters before intervention revealed a low score for all items i.e. diet, exercise, glucose monitoring and foot care. The SDSCA scores for diet, exercise and foot care improved significantly after the DSME program (p<0.001). Majority had uncontrolled diabetes. 89.2% had HbA1C > 7%. Dyslipidemia was present in 60% of patients. 37.3% had total cholesterol > 200 mg/dl, 45.1% had Triglycerides > 150, 56.8% had LDL > 100 mg/dl and 43.1% patients had HDL < 40. Except for weight and BMI, all these parameters improved significantly after DSME program. A structured DSME program suited to the needs of the patients helps in improvement of DSM and achievement of better diabetes and lipid control. The study also emphasizes the role of diabetes educators.