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International Journal of Recent Trends in Science and Technology, ISSN 2277-2812 E-ISSN: 2249-8109
Volume 12, Issue 2, September 2014 pp 394-396
Research Article
Awareness of insulin and factors contributing to its avoidance in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus
Prashanth kumar P1, Smitha Bhat2, Steffi Sapeco3
1,2Resident, 2Professor, Department of Medicine, Father Muller Medical College, Kankanady, Mangalore- 575002.
Abstract
Introduction: The incidence of Diabetes Mellitus is increasing rapidly. Patients of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus can be managed with oral hypoglycaemic agents initially, however many require insulin therapy later in the course of the treatment due to secondary resistance to oral hypoglycaemic agents. Indian Diabetic patients tend to be wary about the use of insulin. This refusal to use insulin militates against achievement of ideal glycaemic control in conditions mandating insulin therapy. This study was aimed at determining the logistic and psychological factors contributing to the refusal or avoidance of insulin therapy and the initial barriers to the use of insulin as a treatment option for Diabetes management. Materials and Methods: This study was a Cross-Sectional Observational study involving 50 patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus attending OPD and inpatients admitted to FMMCH. A Questionnaire was framed, prevalidated, piloted and the questionnaire was administered in the local language and the data collected was analysed. Results: From this study it was inferred that 88% diabetic patients were aware of insulin as a treatment modality for diabetes. It was found that 80% cases avoided insulin due to difficulty in administration and remembering dosage of insulin. It was found that 76% cases had inhibitions to initiate insulin injections in view of fear of pain and 60 % diabetic subjects were wary of insulin therapy fearing that once started, it would need to be continued lifelong. Conclusion: Exploring patient concerns and beliefs about insulin is crucial to assist physicians in counselling and motivating patients to take insulin.
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