Health literacy and glycaemic control amongst individuals with diabetes

Abstract

Overview of the topic: Diabetes Mellitus (DM) is a common chronic multi-system disease where the body is affected with low insulin production or impaired insulin utilisation. Health literacy is essential in diabetics as it increases knowledge and skills aimed at enabling to take better control of the persons’ body. This dissertation is aims to evaluate health literacy in diabetic patients. The research question: “Does health literacy influence glucose control amongst individuals with diabetes?” PICO elements: The population (P) studies were individuals with diabetes. The exposure (E) was good health literacy. The Comparison (C) was health illiteracy. The final desired outcome (O) was glucose control. Method: The elements of the PICO questions were used as key terms to generate alternative synonyms. A comprehensive search was conducted to access relevant databases, with the implementation of the Mesh terms generated from the PICO questions. The Critical Appraisal Skills Programme (CASP) tool was used to critically appraise the literature. Results: A total of five key studies were identified. These included one cross-sectional study and four systematic reviews. All five studies showed that health literacy in diabetic patients lacked, and improving health literacy and health outcomes could increase health literacy. Conclusion: The findings showed that further research needs to be conducted on health literacy in diabetic patients, regarding the effectiveness. Acknowledging the benefits of health literacy in glycaemic control which was a factor in patients diagnosed with diabetes. Implications and recommendations: Educating patients and healthcare professionals upon communication technology. More investigation upon strategies regarding health knowledge. Having a supportive environment for patients.