Ações de autocuidado dos diabéticos atendidos na atenção primária à saúde

To identify self-care actions carried out by users with Diabetes Mellitus within the scope of primary health care. Descriptive, exploratory, cross-sectional study, with a quantitative approach, conducted in Basic Units with a Family Health Strategy, in the North and South Health Districts of Natal/RN, with 379 diabetics over 18 years of age, registered in these units. Two forms were applied: one on the characterization of the unit and another for the user (divided into two parts). Descriptive statistical analysis and the parametric Student's t test were used. Data were analyzed using SPSS software, version 20.0. The study was approved by the Research Ethics Committee. It was found that 50.13% said they knew the concept of self-care and 68.22% said they carried out this practice. The main actions they are associated with the use of medications, physical activity, diet and blood glucose control. Diabetics in the southern district had a greater number of days following a healthy diet (mean = 4.94, p-value = 0.010*) and performing physical activities at least 30 minutes (mean = 2.56, p-value = 0.048*). Self-care for diabetes is still a challenge, making it essential to strengthen actions aimed at encouraging healthy lifestyle habits.