Diabetes education and self-care behaviors in patients with diabetes in Mexico

Background: Diabetes educators are an important element in the multidisciplinary treatment team of diabetes. Diabetes education interventions are recommended throughout the course of the disease since they have a favorable impact in glucose control. Objective: The objective of the study was to evaluate the baseline status and at follow-up of patients participating in diabetes education sessions. Methods: Retrospective cohort study based on the review of clinical records of patients from a National Health Institute in Mexico. A total of 153 subjects that attended individual sessions were included in the study. Changes were assessed in 48 participants that had a second evaluation. The outcomes included clinical, anthropometric, and biochemical parameters, along with variables related to diabetes education. Results: The knowledge about tools for diabetes self-management was poor. Significant changes were found in different components that promote self-management of diabetes including knowing glycemic targets, performing an adequate insulin injection, and practicing self-monitoring of blood glucose. Conclusions: The knowledge of patients with diabetes about their disease is inadequate. Interventions related to diabetes education could promote better adherence to self-care behaviors in patients with diabetes.