A comparison between HbA1c levels and knowledge and attitudes concerning diabetes among type 1 and type 2 diabetics

Abstract

Aim: The purpose of this study was to compare the knowledge of and attitude to diabetes with HbA1c levels in type 1 and type 2 diabetics.Materials and methods: The sample of the study consisted of 118 type 1 diabetics and 125 type 2 diabetics, a total of 243 individuals. Sampling strength was 92%. A personal characteristics identification form, a diabetes knowledge assessment fonn (prepared separately for type 1 and type 2 diabetics), a Diabetes Attitude Scale (DAS), and the HbA1c values of the participants for the previous three or six months were used.Results: All diabetics had a good level of knowledge of diabetes, and their diabetes attitude scores showed that they had a positive attitude. There was a strong correlation between the mean knowledge scores of the diabetics in the study and their mean DAS scores for type 1 diabetics (r = 0.76, p< 0.001) and a medium level correlation for type 2 diabetics (r = 0.72, p< 0.001). A statistically significant negative correlation was found between HbA1c levels and knowledge and DAS scores of type 1 and type 2 diabetics. As knowledge of diabetes and DAS scores increase, so HbA1c levels fall.Conclusion: Type 1 and type 2 diabetic patients, knowledge and attitude affects HbA1c levels. All healthcare staff and particularly nurses should eliminating lack of knowledge with the help of continuous education programs.