Knowledge of Diabetic Complications in Diabetic Patients and Non-diabetic Family Care Givers: An Awareness of Health Promotion Study

Background Diabetes mellitus and its complications have a significant impact on patient health and quality of life as they impose substantial burdens on family members. This study aims to explore the awareness levels of diabetic complications among both diabetic patients and their non-diabetic family caregivers. Objectives To assess the level of knowledge and its association with sociodemographic factors concerning diabetes management and complications among diabetic patients and their caregivers. Methodology A cross-sectional, questionnaire-based descriptive study was conducted in the Diabetes Specialty Clinic of a tertiary health care hospital in Pune. The study included diabetic patients attending the OPD as well as inpatients, along with their caregivers. For patients who were not accompanied by their caregivers, information was gathered via telephone. A total of 65 diabetic patients and 65 caregivers were included in the study. Section A of the questionnaire collects demographic information and disease-related information. Section B assessed basic knowledge of diabetic complications, chronic co-morbidities, foot care, and peripheral neuropathy. Participants were also asked about their apprehensions regarding diabetic complications. Data were analysed using SPSS Statistics version 21 (IBM Corp., Armonk, NY, USA). Results The majority of patients and caregivers demonstrated limited awareness of complications associated with sustained hyperglycemia. Only 40 patients (61.5%) and 31 caregivers (47.6%) recognized myocardial infarction (MI) as a possible outcome. Awareness of stroke was similarly low, with 33 patients (50.7%) and eight caregivers (12.3%) identifying it as a risk. Recognition of congestive cardiac failure (CCF) was poorest, with just 30 patients (46.2%) and nine caregivers (13.8%) aware of its link to prolonged high blood sugar levels. Patients had higher knowledge scores compared to caregivers, indicating a need for targeted educational interventions for family caregivers especially towards monitoring regular sugar, adherence to treatment and lifestyle modification. Conclusion The results highlight significant gaps in knowledge and underscore the influence of socio-demographic factors on diabetes management and awareness. These findings can inform the development of targeted health promotion strategies aimed at improving diabetes care and preventing complications.