Knowledge of Self-Monitoring of Blood Glucose and the Degree of Self Titration of Anti-Diabetic Drugs in Rawalakot Azad Jammu and Kashmir

Abstract

Objectives: In the context of managing diabetes mellitus, self-blood glucose monitoring is crucial. While self-blood glucose monitoring, all instructions must be followed, and keeping record is crucial to help the doctor titrate the medications and dosages of anti-diabetes medicines. Furthermore, it is important to prevent patients from self-titrating after self-monitoring of blood glucose. The aim of the study is to evaluate the knowledge and practice of self-blood glucose monitoring among diabetes patients as well as the level of self-titration of anti-diabetic medications among diabetes patients. Study design and setting: This cross-sectional community based research was conducted in Rawalakot (Azad Jammu & Kashmir) from December 2021 to June 2022. Methodology: A validated questionnaire was filled by 171 adult male and female diabetes patients who self-monitored their blood sugar levels at home. Patients with diabetic complications and those with juvenile diabetes were excluded from the study. Results: Only 46 (26.9%) of the 171 patients reported knowing about and correctly implementing self-blood glucose monitoring. 125 patients (73.1%) lacked the necessary information and did not accurately monitor self-blood glucose. On the basis of self-monitoring, 111 people (64.9 percent) acknowledged that they self-titrate their anti-diabetic medications. Conclusion: Blood glucose self-monitoring should be promoted, and patients should be instructed by a doctor or diabetes educator on the significance of following the correct procedures of doing the self-monitoring of glucose