KNOWLEDGE OF DIABETIC PATIENTS TOWARDS THEIR DIETARY MANAGEMENT IN LIRA REGIONAL REFERRAL HOSPITAL. A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY.

Abstract

Background: 

The study aims to assess the knowledge, of diabetic patients towards their dietary management at Lira Regional Referral Hospital. 

 Methodology: 

A descriptive cross-sectional design utilizing Quantitative data collection methods from 30 respondents.

 Results: 

Respondents were averagely knowledgeable about dietary management. The majority 17(57%) of the respondents knew that bitter food substances can cure diabetes while a few 13(43%) knew that bitter food substances cannot cure diabetes but can help in the management of diabetes. majority 21(70%) of the respondents knew that diabetes can be controlled by avoiding carbohydrates such as sweet potatoes and others, while a few 9(30%) did not which indicates that they have been consuming carbohydrates in their diet. majority 22(73%) knew that diabetes can be controlled by avoiding too much sugar while a few 8(27%) did not indicating a certain degree of lack of knowledge on controlling sugar among a few diabetic patients. In addition, most 22(73%) of the respondents knew the outcomes of not controlling blood sugars in diabetes mellitus patients while a few 8(27%) did not. 20(61%) belonged to the age category of more than 40 years, 1(6%) were of the age category of 18 to 24 years, 4(15%) were of the age category 25 to 29 years, while 5(18%) were of the age category of 30 to 34 years. 

 Conclusion: 

Dietary knowledge among diabetic patients receiving care at Lira Regional Referral Hospital was moderate suggesting the need for awareness campaigns, orientation programs, and routine training sessions by hospitals. 

 Recommendations: 

It’s imperative for the community members especially those suffering and at risk of getting diabetes to improve the way they eat since eating a well-balanced and nutritious diet with less carbohydrates not only controls blood sugars but also controls other cardiovascular diseases.