Diabetes Self-Care Behaviors in Singapore and Their Associations With Patients’ Characteristics and Health Literacy

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to examine the relationship between self-management behaviors (eg, healthy eating, being active, medication taking, glucose monitoring, feet check), sociodemographic factors, disease-related characteristics, and health literacy among patients with type 2 diabetes in Singapore.

Methods

Data were analyzed from a nationwide survey conducted between 2019 and 2020 (n = 387). Self-management behaviors were assessed using the Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension questionnaire, the Global Physical Activity Questionnaire, and a diabetes care questionnaire. A linear regression model was generated to examine the association of healthy eating with the variables of interest (sociodemographic factors, disease-related characteristics, and health literacy), and logistic regression models were generated to investigate the significant correlates of the remaining self-care behaviors.

Results

Regression models showed that the 5 self-care behaviors have different correlates. Nonetheless, compared to individuals aged 50 to 64 years, those aged 65 years and above were less likely to be active, adhere to their medication prescription, and check their feet. Individuals with a higher number of diabetes-related complications were less likely to be sufficiently active but more likely to monitor their glucose level and check their feet. Moreover, individuals with poor health literacy were more likely to eat healthily and be sufficiently active.

Conclusions

Programs related to self-care behaviors can be tailored to specific demographics to improve their uptake in the population. Furthermore, encouraging comprehensive self-care behaviors in those aged 65 years and above is crucial for effective diabetes management.