Abstract

Dr. Shazia Ghani, Dr. Arifa Urooj, Dr. Nisa Khan and *Dr. Anum Siddiqui

ABSTRACT

Diabetes mellitus is a physiological condition caused by either production of inactive insulin or inadequate production of insulin. Insulin is responsible for regulating blood sugar levels. Objectives: This study aims to unveil how well informed the population is as far as diabetes mellitus is concerned. Methods: A total of 400 subjects were randomly selected and interviewed using two different structured questionnaires during the period from August 30, 2016, to September 17, 2016. The questionnaire was including risk factors, symptoms, and complications of type 2 diabetes mellitus, as well as methods of prevention The SPSS (version 20), was used for statistical analysis. Results: Out of 400 subjects 200 were males, and 200 were female, their ages ranged from 18 to 24 years old, and 16.5% (66/400) were a diabetic patient. In this study, 52.5% (105/200) of the male respondents were not aware of the risk factors for diabetes mellitus. This was a larger number compared to the 40.5% (81/200) of female unaware. However, 92% of both male and female respondents taking health related courses had an idea about causes of diabetes mellitus. About 67% (268/400) of the respondents were not sure whether the condition is infectious or non-communicable. Only 29.25% (117/400) of participants identified high blood pressure as a major risk factor. Lifestyle and genetics were the major aspects most of the respondents were aware of causes of diabetes mellitus. Just 9.5% (38/400) knew that some medications could cause the disease. Moreover, close to 60% (240/400) were not aware of the methods of prevention. 39.5% (158/400) knew that diabetes mellitus could result in peripheral neuropathy while 30% (120/400) knew that diabetes mellitus could cause retinopathy. Other complications got a low response including chronic renal failure 12.5% (50/400), CHD 11% (44/400), sexual dysfunction 4.5% (18/400) and stroke 4.5% (18/400). Conclusion: There is a lack of awareness of diabetes mellitus among Pakistani population. This calls for larger studies to investigate the awareness of this morbid disease among the public. Raising the awareness of the population as an important sector of the community is badly needed.