Assessment of the Level and Associated Factors with Knowledge and Practice of Diabetes Mellitus among Diabetic Patients Attending at FelegeHiwot Hospital, Northwest Ethiopia

Introduction: Diabetes mellitus was perceived as the problem of the developed world but currently developing countries like Ethiopia are suffering chronic diseases of which diabetes is the major one.Objective: The aim of this study wasto assess of the level and associated factors with knowledge and practice of diabetes mellitus among diabetic patients attending at FelegeHiwot hospital. Methods: Institution based cross sectional study was conducted using interviewer administered questionnaire among 410 diabetic patients. Systematic sampling technique was used to select study subjects. Data was entered to EPI info 3.5.1 and then transferred to SPSS for analysis. Descriptive and analytical statistics including bivariate and multivariate analysis were applied. Result: Among 410 respondents, Half (49.8%) of them had good knowledge and one hundred fifty four (36.8%) participants had good practice on diabetes. Lower age was significantly associated with good knowledge and practice. Age group 18-32 yrs, 33-41 yrs and 42-50 yrs were 6.2 times, 3.3 times and 3.1 times respectively more likely to had good knowledge compared to individuals who were at the age of 50 yrsand above. Similarly, age group between 18-32 yrs was 6 times more likely to have good practice. Higher educational status was also associated with good knowledge and practice. Participants in grade 1-8, grade 9-12 and higher education and above were 3.4 times, 4.7 times and 7.2 timesrespectively more likely to had good knowledge compared to those who were unable to read and write.Likewise, those in grade 1-8, grade 9-12 and higher education and above were 3.5, 4.3 and5.4 times respectivelyto have good practice.Increased duration of diabetic therapy was positively associated with good knowledge and practice. Increased level of income was positively associated with good practice.Conclusion: This study demonstrated low level of knowledge and practice among DM patients. Age, educational status and duration of DM therapy were associated with good knowledge and practice of participants. Monthly income was also associated with good practice. Improving knowledge and practice of diabetic patient through active education is advisable. Involvement of both governmental and non-governmental organizations is also crucial to help patients receive maximum benefit from the health care service.