Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus Patients on Ramadan Fasting at Hospital Universiti Sains Malaysia

Abstract

Objective: To assess the level of knowledge, attitude, and practice of type 2 diabetes patients regarding Ramadan fasting. Study Design: A cross-sectional study done at the outpatient clinic hospital at Universiti Sains Malaysia. Two hundred and forty three type 2 diabetes patients who attended the outpatient clinic were given a self-administered questionnaire. Two-way analysis ofvariance (2-way ANOVA) was used to test differences ofthe total mean score of knowledge, attitude, and practice between genders and between those who received health education and those who did not. Result: Knowledge deficits were identified for symptoms of hypoglycemia, correct practice during fasting, and problems that may arise from fasting. A positive attitude was noted for self-control of the disease and the ability to fast. Medications were adjusted according to doctors' advice. The majority ate the predawn meal, but only 15.69% had supper, and 16.09% never took simple sugars on breaking fast. Conclusion: Type 2 diabetes patients exhibited a good attitude toward Ramadan fasting despite deficits in knowledge and inappropriate practice.