Effect of Educational Intervention on Type II Diabetes Mellitus Control

摘要

Rural Alabama currently lacks resources to significantly impact the trend of increasing rates of diabetes. Therefore, this pilot study was designed to evaluate the effect of an education intervention on knowledge, motivation, and attitudes of participants with Type II diabetes mellitus. The aim was to improve lifestyle and overall control of diabetes for a rural, vulnerable population. Ten participants (7 with diabetes and 3 with pre-diabetes) attended three class sessions over a two-month period with presentations focused on general diabetes information, diet, exercise, and proper management through glucose measurement and medications. A pre- and post-survey design evaluated participants’ behaviors, knowledge, motivation and attitude towards making lifestyle changes. Responses were compared pre- to post-intervention. While knowledge levels related to diabetes, diet, and exercise increased, the changes were not statistically significant. Similarly, participants expressed increased motivation towards weight loss, healthful eating, exercise and positive lifestyle choices. However, these changes were not statistically significant. This pilot study demonstrates an increase in personal knowledge, motivation, and attitude for a small group of patients with diabetes or pre-diabetes. These group classes are inexpensive and will be easy to replicate with larger groups. They demonstrate the potential to motivate patients towards positive change.