Prevalence of Diabetes and Patterns of Health Seeking Behaviour Among Known Diabetics in a Rural Area of Lucknow District

Abstract

Introduction: Diabetes has emerged as a global public health crisis, with a rapidly increasing prevalence, especially in low- and middle-income countries. India is often referred to as the ‘Diabetes Capital of the World’, with a substantial portion of its population suffering from diabetes or at risk of developing it. Health-seeking behaviour plays a crucial role in managing this disease and minimizing complications, making it a pertinent subject of study. This research aims to understand the current health-seeking behaviours and the influencing factors among individuals with diabetes in a rural area of Lucknow, India.
Methods: This community-based cross-sectional study, conducted between September 2017 and August 2018, targeted adults aged 40 years and older using multistage random sampling. Data was collected through face-to-face interviews and fasting blood glucose measurements using the Accu-Chek active blood glucose meter kit. Ethical approval was obtained before the study commenced.
Results: The study found that 15.6% of the study population had diabetes, with a similar prevalence among males and females. Among these, over half were already diagnosed with diabetes, but only about one-fifth of those on medication had their blood sugar under control. The majority of known diabetic patients preferred private healthcare facilities, often citing shorter waiting times. Socioeconomic and demographic factors significantly influenced health-seeking behaviour, with the lower socio-economic classes, government employees, and housewives being less likely to have their blood sugar checked regularly.
Conclusion: This study highlights the need for improved diabetes-related services and care-seeking behaviours to effectively manage diabetes, especially in economically disadvantaged and marginalised populations. Understanding the reasons for seeking healthcare, especially the gendered dimensions, is vital for tailoring diabetes management strategies. Policymakers and healthcare professionals must work toward achieving Sustainable Development Goal 3.4, which aims to reduce premature mortality from non-communicable diseases like diabetes by one-third by 2030.

How to cite this article:
Deori T J, Das J. Prevalence of Diabetes and Patterns of Health Seeking Behaviour Among Known Diabetics in a Rural Area of Lucknow District. Chettinad Health City Med J. 2024;13(2):46-53.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.24321/2278.2044.202428