Abstract:
This study aimed to assess the knowledge, attitude and practice towards diabetes mellitus among residents of Oredo Local Government Area, Edo State, Nigeria. Three research questions were raised to guide this study.
The descriptive research design was adopted for this study and random sampling technique was used to select 200 (Two hundred ) residents in Oredo local government Area. Data was collected from the 200 respondents using a structured questionnaire with a pre- tested Seventeen (17) items was used to collect data on demographics, knowledge and attitude towards diabetes mellitus. The data collected was analyzed and interpreted using simple frequencies, percentage, mean and standard deviation.
Based on the data collected and analyzed. It was revealed that a significant majority of respondents displayed a positive attitude towards addressing diabetes in their community and expressed concern about its rising prevalence,only 26.5% demonstrated a good knowledge of diabetes mellitus, highlighting a need for further education and awareness.However,56.5% of respondents do not engage in exercise or physical activity and it was observed that majority of the respondents 40.5% consume alot of sugary or high- carbohydrate food in their diet while only a few got screened for diabetes mellitus as well as attending regular health check ups. Based on the findings of this study, the following conclusion were made, The level of the knowledge on Diabetes Mellitus among residents of Oredo Local Government area of Edo state is low. However, their attitudes towards diabetes mellitus is positive. It was recommended the need for public health education and awareness campaigns to improve knowledge and attitude towards diabetes mellitus among residents of Oredo Local Government Area. Interventions should focus on addressing misconceptions and improving understanding of diabetes causes, symptoms, and management. Public health education programs, community-based screening, collaboration with healthcare providers, support group establishment, and policy recommendations are suggested to improve diabetes care and management in the area.
