How Disease Awareness Affects Diabetes Management

Diabetes is a common health issue in Portugal, causing serious health problems and even death. Managing it properly isn't easy; it involves many factors, with daily habits playing a big role. Research shows that when people know less about diabetes, their health management suffers. They feel less confident and have less control over their health. This study aimed to understand what diabetic patients in Portugal know about their disease using a special test called the Diabetes Knowledge Test (DKT). The goal was to see if knowing more about diabetes helps people manage it better. The study found that many patients didn't know enough about diabetes. This lack of knowledge was linked to poorer health management. The researchers suggested that educating patients could improve their health outcomes. They also noted that patients' confidence in managing their disease was important. This study highlights the need for better education and support for people with diabetes.