ASSESSMENT OF THE UTILIZATION OF STRESS REDUCTION AND PHYSICAL EXERCISE MEASURES AMONG DIABETES MELLITUS TYPE 2 PATIENTS AT LUBAGA HOSPITAL, KAMPALA DISTRICT. A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY.

Abstract

Background:

Diabetes Mellitus Type 2 is a chronic condition characterized by high levels of glucose in the blood. There are non-medication treatments, like stress reduction and physical exercise that play a crucial role in managing diabetes. Together, these lifestyle modifications can significantly improve glycemic control, reduce the need for medication, and lower the risk of diabetes-related complications. Therefore, this study seeks to assess the utilization of Stress Reduction and Physical Exercise Measures among Diabetes Mellitus type 2 Patients at Lubaga Hospital, Kampala District.

Methodology:

A cross-sectional study that utilized a quantitative method of data collection was conducted at UMHL; 30 DM patients were selected using a simple random sampling method. A structured questionnaire was used to collect data and involved both open and closed-ended questions and the data was arranged in the form of tables, pie-charts, and graphs.

Results:

On utilization of stress reduction measures, 11(30.6%) mentioned that the financial burden of disease management was the primary source of stress in nurses' lives, 32(89%) received information from healthcare workers about stress reduction techniques, 16(50%) received information about stress reduction techniques from doctors. Regarding utilization of physical exercise measures, 25(69%) accepted they engaged in regular physical exercises to manage their diabetes, 12(48%) mentioned they lacked time to maintain regular physical exercise, and 7(63.6%) reported they participated in physical exercises for about 10-15minutes. 

Conclusion:

Participants utilized non-pharmacological measures such as stress-reduction, and physical exercises. However, 11(30.6%) mentioned they still faced the financial burden of disease management and the majority 12(48%) lacked time to maintain regular physical exercise.

Recommendation:

Diabetic patients should make exercise an integral part of their lives and make flexible and time-efficient routines for physical activity such as walking and engage in continuous educational programs to be informed about stress management.