Self-care behaviors and health indicators in adults with type 2 diabetes

Rev Lat Am Enfermagem. 2010 Jul-Aug;18(4):675-80. doi: 10.1590/s0104-11692010000400003.

Abstract

This descriptive correlational study aimed to analyze self-care behaviors and their relationship with health indicators represented by glycemic control, lipid profile, Body Mass Index [BMI], waist circumference and body fat percentage in a sample of 98 adults with type 2 diabetes in an area of Nuevo Leon, Mexico (August 2005/May 2006). The results showed a low self-care behaviors index (X = 36.94, SD=15.14). A significant relationship was found between self-care behaviors and glycosilated hemoglobin [HbA1c] (r s=-.379, p<.001), triglycerides (r s=-.208, p=.040), BMI (r s=-.248, p=.014) and body fat percentage (r s=-.221, p=.029). Multivariate analysis revealed the influence of self-care behaviors on HbA1c, BMI and body fat percentage with explained variances of 9 to 41% (p < .05). From all self-care dimensions, diet was the most predictive for health indicators, moderated by gender and understanding of diabetes contents (p< .05).

Publication types

  • Comparative Study
  • Evaluation Study

MeSH terms

  • Adipose Tissue
  • Adult
  • Behavioral Research
  • Body Mass Index
  • Diabetes Mellitus, Type 2* / blood
  • Diabetes Mellitus, Type 2* / diagnosis
  • Education
  • Female
  • Glycated Hemoglobin / analysis
  • Glycemic Index
  • Health Status Indicators*
  • Humans
  • Interviews as Topic
  • Male
  • Mexico
  • Middle Aged
  • Multivariate Analysis
  • Self Care*
  • Sex Factors
  • Triglycerides / blood
  • World Health Organization

Substances

  • Glycated Hemoglobin A
  • Triglycerides