Physical Disability Among Adults with Type 2 Diabetes at Bombo Hospital, Tanga Region: Prevalence, Knowledge and Prevention Practices

Background Physical disability in adults with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) often arises from various medical complications, notably Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy (DPN). However, inadequate statistical data impedes a comprehensive understanding of the pattern of physical disability associated with diabetes in this area. Therefore, this study investigated the current prevalence of physical disability and its association with the level of knowledge and prevention practices among adult T2DM patients attending the diabetic clinic at Bombo Hospital in the Tanga region. Methods A hospital-based quantitative cross-sectional study design was carried out among adult 337 adult T2DM patients aged 40 years and above attending a diabetic clinic at Bombo Hospital. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire and the Katz Index of Independence in Activities of Daily Living (ADLs). Data was analyzed using descriptive statistics, chi-square, and logistic regression tests. Results The study revealed that 59.9% of participants experienced physical disability associated with diabetes. Approximately 46.9% of participants had moderate levels of knowledge regarding physical disability, while 58.5% demonstrated appropriate prevention practices. Notably, being female (AOR 1.94, 95%CI: 1.14-3.32) and having a T2DM diagnosis for 5 to 10 years (AOR 2.73, 95%CI: 1.40-5.34) were significantly linked to a higher prevalence of physical disability. Conclusion The observed prevalence of physical disability linked to diabetes is alarmingly high. Therefore, there is a crucial need for healthcare providers to persist in educating diabetic patients on methods to prevent physical disability associated with diabetes.