Evaluating the Awareness of Routine Blood Investigations and its impact on the Clinical Outcomes among patients with Diabetes Mellitus – A cross-sectional study

Background: Diabetes mellitus is a chronic metabolic disorder that requires regular biochemical monitoring to ensure effective glycemic control and prevent complications. Despite advances in diagnostic and therapeutic modalities, inadequate patient awareness regarding routine investigations remains a challenge. This study aimed to assess the level of awareness about routine laboratory investigations among diabetic patients and their association with glycemic control and complications. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 205 diabetic patients attending a tertiary care hospital. Data on socio-demographic characteristics, type and duration of diabetes, treatment modalities, and awareness about laboratory investigations were collected using a structured questionnaire. Glycemic parameters (FBS, PPBS, and HbA1c) and complication prevalence were analysed. Statistical significance was assessed using chi-square, t-tests, and correlation analysis. Results: Of the participants, 54.1% demonstrated good awareness and 45.9% poor awareness. Participants with good awareness had significantly better fasting glucose (158.7 ± 9.5 mg/dL vs. 162.2 ± 10.7 mg/dL; p = 0.013) and HbA1c levels (6.9 ± 2.13% vs. 7.5 ± 2.08%; p = 0.043). Awareness was significantly associated with age, education, duration of diabetes, and frequency of clinic visits. A negative but significant correlation was observed between awareness and FBS and HbA1c (r =-0.42, -0.39 and p value 0.001, 0.002, respectively) Conclusion: Higher awareness of laboratory investigations is associated with improved glycemic control, particularly in fasting glucose and HbA1c levels. However, awareness alone did not significantly reduce complication rates, suggesting the need for sustained educational interventions, regular follow-up, and behavioural reinforcement. Strengthening structured patient education programs can enhance self-management and reduce the long-term burden of diabetes.