Knowledge, Attitude and Practice Towards Diabetes Mellitus Among Diabetic Patients in Federal Territory of Labuan, Malaysia
Abstract
In Malaysia, the prevalence of diabetes is highest in Western Pacific region affecting around 1 in every 5 adults. Diabetes management is often complex and diabetes knowledge, attitude and practice (KAP) are vital to make appropriate adjustments in daily lifestyles. Objective: The purpose of this study was to determine the level of KAP and its associated socio-demographic and disease-related factors among diabetes patients in Labuan Federal Territory, Malaysia. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted among 121 Type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM) patients in the Health Clinic of Labuan Federal Territory from November 2021 to January 2022. Patients ≥18 years old who can understand English or Malay and on regular treatment in the clinic were recruited via convenience sampling method to assess their KAP level via a validated self-administered KAP questionnaire. Results: On average, the participants have poor knowledge level, attitude level, yet good practice level towards diabetes. Significant moderate correlation was observed between knowledge and attitude (r=0.454; P<0.001), knowledge and practice (r=0.463; P<0.001) as well as attitude and practice (r=0.402; P<0.001). In addition, knowledge, attitude and practice towards DM are significantly associated with other variables such as educational level, monthly income, attended DM program and occupation. Conclusion: Diabetes patients in Labuan have poor knowledge towards DM, poor attitude towards DM and good DM practice. As diabetes education is paramount to better self-care among patients, diabetes programs that are suited to the local setting or culture is needed to empower patients with adequate knowledge for its management.