Knowledge, Attitudes and Lifestyle Practices among Patients with Type 2 Diabetes at University Teaching Hospital, Butare- Rwanda

Purpose: Type 2 diabetes mellitus is a chronic metabolic disease related to insulin and is one of the most significant worldwide health problems. In the developing world, the number of people afflicted by type 2 diabetes mellitus continues rising, and carries with it considerable morbidity and mortality. Type 2 diabetes mellitus problems can be avoided or even stopped with behavior adjustment and the adoption of healthy living practices. Nevertheless, the majority of diabetes mellitus patients lack adequate knowledge of and application of healthier lifestyles. Aim of the study is to determine the knowledge, attitudes and practice regarding lifestyle modification in type 2 diabetes patients at CHUB. Methodology: A cross section study was applied with the sample size of 364 participants, almost the half 189(51.9%) of the participants were aged between 41-60 years old. regarding the marital status the majority 246(67.6%) were married. Concerning to education level almost a half 188(51.6%) did primary school only. In this population, 39.8% of the participants were farmers while only 9.1% formal employment. Data collected with a structured questionnaire and analyzed with SPSS version 26. Findings: The study found that 98.4% of participants had good knowledge about lifestyle modifications for managing type 2 diabetes, with all 364 participants aware of the importance of health checks and screening. However, 13.2% were unaware that limiting fatty foods contributes to managing the condition. Nearly all participants (98.1%) had a positive attitude towards a controlled diet, and all agreed on the importance of regular exercise to prevent complications. While 12.9% believed traditional healers could cure diabetes, 94.8% followed effective lifestyle practices. Factorial ANOVA revealed significant effects of BMI, marital status, and occupation on lifestyle practices (p<0.001). Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: As recommendations, measures should be taken to maintain and to improve the health promotion about life style modifications to prevent and manage the type two diabetes mellitus and other none communicable diseases.