KNOWLEDGE LEVEL OF TYPE 2 DIABETES MELLITUS IN PATIENTS OF A FAMILY HEALTH UNIT IN CIUDAD DEL ESTE, PARAGUAY

Abstract

This study evaluated the level of knowledge about type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) in 48 patients from the Santa Ana Family Health Unit in Ciudad del Este, Paraguay, using the DKQ-24 questionnaire. The results showed a moderate-low general knowledge (53.56% correct answers), with notable deficits in “basic knowledge” (43.75%) and “glycemic control” (37.50%). Prevalent misconceptions were identified, such as the idea that “eating sugar causes diabetes” (79.2% incorrect responses) and that diabetes is curable (45.8% incorrectly believed). Knowledge about “complication prevention” was comparatively better (83.63%), although a weak negative correlation with age was found in this dimension (r = -0.288, P = 0.047). No significant differences in knowledge by sex or educational level were found in statistical tests. These findings highlight the urgent need to implement structured and culturally adapted diabetes education programs in primary care to improve self-care and health outcomes.