Awareness about Risk factors and Preventive measures for Diabetes Mellitus among general population of Himachal Pradesh

Background: In Himachal Pradesh, a limited number of studies have been carried out to determine the population's level of awareness and understanding of the risk factors and measures to prevent Diabetic Mellitus (DM). The objective of this study was to measure this knowledge among the general population of Himachal Pradesh. Material and Methods: This cross sectional survey was conducted from January 2021 to March 2021 using Google forms among the people residing in the state of Himachal Pradesh. The questionnaire was circulated among both rural and urban residents of the state for responses using online modes like e-mail and social media platforms like Whatsapp groups, Facebook, Instagram and Linkedin till the 400 responses were collected. Information regarding their socio-demographic characteristics and knowledge, regarding risk and preventive factors for Diabetes Mellitus were obtained. Data was analyzed using Epi info v7 software using appropriate statistical tests. Results: A total of 400 respondents including 150(37.5%) were from urban area and 250(62.5%) were from rural area were participated in the study. Among the participants of the majority 268(67.0%) were males, 182(45.5%) were between 18-30 years, 152(38.0%) were Graduate, 254 (63.5%) were employee, 247(61.75%) were married and 383 (95.75%) were Hindu. In the present study 66(16.5%) study participants had very good knowledge (9-10 marks) towards risk factors for Diabetes, 259(64.75%) had good knowledge (7-8 marks), 70(17.5%) had fair knowledge (4-6 marks) and 5(1.25%) had poor knowledge (<4 marks) towards risk factors for Diabetes. Similarly, 39(9.75%) study participants had very good knowledge (9-10 marks) towards preventive measures about Diabetes, 288(72%) had good knowledge (7-8 marks), 54(13.5%) had fair knowledge (4-6 marks) and 19 (4.75%) had poor knowledge (<4 marks) towards preventive measures about Diabetes. Conclusion: Many survey participants were still unaware of the risk and protective factors for diabetes mellitus. There is a need for community health education programmes about DM risk factors and preventive measures.