Glycemic Control in Diabetic Patients in Saudi Arabia: The Role of Knowledge and Self-Management - A Cross-Sectional Study

INTRODUCTION: Diabetes mellitus (DM) is serious healthcare concern in Saudi Arabia, with the disease’s prevalence in the country being one of the highest worldwide. This study examines various factors which affect outcomes of patients with DM; namely, medication adherence, diabetes knowledge, self-management behaviours, and glycemic control.

METHODS: This is a cross-sectional survey-based study. Participants were patients with a DM diagnosis at King Saud Medical City in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

RESULTS: Positive associations were found between medication adherence and diabetes knowledge; self-management behaviours (glucose management and healthcare use) and diabetes knowledge; self-management behaviours (dietary control) and fasting blood glucose levels; and age and blood glucose levels (both fasting and HgA1c). No associations were found between diabetes knowledge and glycemic control; or between self-management behaviours and HgA1c levels.

CONCLUSION: Having good knowledge of diabetes is associated with medication adherence and healthcare self-management. Healthcare practitioners should consider educating DM patients an integral part of the treatment process.