Knowledge of the Risks of Heart Disease in Uninsured and Insured Persons with Diabetes in a Rural Community in Southeastern United States

摘要

Diabetes and heart disease are chronic illnesses affecting many lives in the United States. Both diseases have complications, and when coupled together, the mortality rate and risk of complications increase. Heart disease is the leading cause of death in most countries across the world, and the majority of individuals diagnosed with diabetes die of a heart disease complication. Literature review reveals a plethora of research regarding the relationship between diabetes and heart disease, but limited research was found regarding health disparities with diabetes and heart disease awareness. No research was found assessing the knowledge base regarding diabetes and heart disease among the uninsured and insured populations. This research study tested the following hypothesis: The knowledge of major risk factors for the development of cardiovascular disease among uninsured diabetics is less than the knowledge of those risk factors in individuals who are insured. A descriptive survey, guided by Nola Penderu27s Health Promotion Model and utilizing the Heart Disease Fact Questionnaire, was conducted using a convenience sample of uninsured and insured persons with Type 2 diabetes. The results indicated that the uninsured population had higher scores on the questionnaire, but there was no statistically significant difference in the knowledge level of heart disease between the two groups. The implications for this study have the potential to render further research in nursing regarding diabetes, heart disease, and health disparities. Keywords: diabetes, heart disease, uninsured, insured