DIABETES MANAGEMENT: PHARMACY STUDENTS' KNOWLEDGE AND PERCEPTIONS OF HERBAL THERAPIES IN

Diabetes mellitus is a chronic metabolic disorder that requires long-term pharmacologic therapy and lifestyle modification to maintain glycemic control and prevent complications. In addition to conventional treatments, many patients use herbal supplements such as cinnamon, fenugreek, Gymnema sylvestre, and bitter melon to help manage blood glucose levels. However, the level of knowledge and perception regarding these therapies among first professional-year pharmacy students remains unclear. The objective of this study was to evaluate their knowledge and opinions regarding the use of selected herbal products in diabetes management. Method: A survey-based study was conducted among pharmacy students, and responses were analyzed using statistical software (R version 4.5.2). Demographic characteristics were summarized using descriptive statistics. Knowledge-based responses were evaluated through a composite knowledge score, and opinion-based responses were assessed using Likert scale responses that were collapsed into broader categories for analysis. Statistical tests including analysis of variance (ANOVA), independent t-tests, and Spearman correlation were performed to identify potential relationships between knowledge scores, opinion scores, and demographic variables. Results: Forty students participated in the survey. Most participants were female (75%) and between 18–30 years of age. Over half reported pharmacy-related work experience, and most had earned at least a bachelor’s degree prior to entering pharmacy school. The overall mean knowledge score was 3.43 ± 3.01, indicating a low level of knowledge among participants. A statistically significant inverse correlation was observed between knowledge scores and opinion scores (Spearman ρ = −0.42, p = 0.010). These findings suggest that individuals with higher knowledge scores tended to express less favorable opinions regarding the use of herbal therapies for diabetes management. Conclusion: Pharmacy students demonstrated limited knowledge but generally favorable perceptions regarding herbal therapies in diabetes management. Enhanced education on complementary medicine may improve future pharmacist preparedness and patient counseling.