Influence of Health Beliefs on Diabetes Self-care in Saudi Adults

Abstract

The prevalence of Diabetes Mellitus Type 2 (DMT2) has increased among the adult population in Saudi Arabia. Many Saudi adults with DMT2 fail to follow the recommended daily self-care activities, increasing their risk for diabetes-related complications. Findings in the literature show that people’s health beliefs influence their self-care behaviors. However, limited studies were found to examine the association between the health beliefs of Saudi adults with DMT2 and their diabetes self-care. Therefore, the aim of this dissertation study was to examine the relationship between the health beliefs of adults in Saudi Arabia with DMT2 and their reported adherence to their self-care activities to manage their diabetes. Additionally, the study was conducted to explore Saudi perceptions of threats to their health due to having DMT2. The Health Belief Model was the conceptual framework for this study, and a descriptive, correlational design was used. Data was collected using self-reported questionnaires, and 202 Saudi adults with DMT2 were recruited from diabetes clinics in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. The findings of the study showed that self-efficacy, internal health locus of control, and perceived benefits of doing self-care were the significant predictors of whether the participants followed their self-care activities to manage their diabetes. Therefore, health care providers are encouraged to assess the health beliefs of persons with DMT2 in order to maintain and improve the patients’ adherence to self-care activities.