Association between glycemic control and the level of knowledge and disease awareness in type 2 diabetic patients

INTRODUCTION: Diabetes-related complications may be prevented if good metabolic control is achieved. In addition to drug therapy, patient education may facilitate better glycemic control. OBJECTIVES: The aim of the study was to assess the relationship between glycemic control and effective diabetes education using the knowledge and awareness (KA) questionnaire in type 2 diabetic patients. Moreover, the effect of age, duration of diabetes, sex, body mass index (BMI), and education level on glycemic control was assessed cross-sectionally. PATIENTS AND METHODS: The study included 164 patients with type 2 diabetes. The KA questionnaire, adapted for Turkish population, was distributed among patients after establishing whether they received diabetes education. Associations between the questionnaire scores and glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c), fasting blood glucose (FBG), and BMI were assessed. RESULTS: A significant negative correlation was observed between KA scores and HbA1c and FBG levels. Sixty‑three patients had received diabetes education. These patients had higher KA scores compared with the remaining group (24.0 ±4.0 vs. 16.8 ±5.37, respectively; P <0.0001) and lower HbA1c levels (6.5% vs. 8.5%, respectively; P <0.0001). CONCLUSIONS: In type 2 diabetic patients, the higher the KA score, the more efficient glycemic control can be achieved. Patients who require diabetes education can be identified by using questionnaires that determine their KA level and by using HbA1c tests.