Assessment of Patients’ Knowledge Regarding Non-Pharmacological Management of Diabetes Mellitus Attending in a Tertiary Care Hospital of Bangladesh

Abstract

Background: Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a chronic metabolic disorder characterized by elevated blood glucose due to impaired 
insulin secretion or action. Effective management of DM relies not only on medication but also on adherence to non
pharmacological approaches, including dietary modification, physical activity, smoking cessation, and stress control. Patient 
knowledge plays a critical role in achieving good glycaemic control and preventing complications. Objective: To assess 
patients’ knowledge regarding non-pharmacological management of diabetes mellitus attending a tertiary care hospital in 
Bangladesh. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted at the Departments of Medicine and Endocrinology, 
Sylhet MAG Osmani Medical College Hospital, from March to August 2020. A total of 200 diabetic patients were selected 
through convenience sampling. Data were collected using a structured, pre-tested questionnaire and analyzed using SPSS 
version 25, with results presented as frequency and percentage. Results: Most respondents (63%) were over 50 years of age, 
and 58% were male. Knowledge was moderate across most domains. While 66% understood the role of exercise in diabetes 
control and 53% correctly identified rice as a high-carbohydrate food, only 11.5% were aware of the combined benefits of a 
healthy diet. Awareness regarding smoking hazards (68.5%) was satisfactory, whereas knowledge about stress management was 
poor (45.5% unaware of its effect). Conclusion: Participants demonstrated partial knowledge of non-pharmacological 
management, with limited understanding of stress control and holistic self-care. Strengthening diabetes education through 
structured, culturally tailored programs could enhance self-management and long-term outcomes.