Knowledge, Attitude and Practices of Self-Monitoring of Blood Glucose among Diabetic Patients attending NCD Clinic at a Tertiary Care Hospital in Chennai: A Cross-sectional Study

Introduction: Self-monitoring of blood glucose (SMBG) is a pivotal self-care measure in diabetes management, enabling better glycemic control and complication prevention. In India, however, the practice and awareness of SMBG remains limited, and factors influencing its use are insufficiently explored. Objectives: To assess the awareness, knowledge, attitude, and practices of self-monitoring of blood glucose and the factors associated with its awareness among type 2 diabetic patients. Material Methods: This study included 180 type 2 diabetic patients (≥18 years) attending the NCD clinic of a tertiary care hospital in Chennai using consecutive sampling. Sociodemographic and diabetic profile alongside awareness, knowledge, attitude and practices of SMBG were assessed using a pretested semi-structured questionnaire. Data were analyzed in SPSS v21.0, using frequencies/ proportions for categorical variables and exact tests for socio-demographic associations. Results: Only 48.9% of participants were aware of SMBG. Among those patients with awareness (n=88), healthcare professionals were the main source of information (52.6%), yet 35.9% of aware patients lacked practical knowledge on using a glucometer and 30.8% of them were unaware of the benefits. Also 88.5% (n=88) expressed willingness to use glucometers if subsidized. Only 57.9% of aware patients ever used a glucometer. Awareness of SMBG showed significant association with age (p<0.001) and education (p<0.001). Conclusion: The study highlights substantial gaps in knowledge and practice of SMBG among type 2 diabetics, significantly influenced by socio-demographic factors like age and education. Strengthening patient education, clearing misconceptions, and improving access to affordable resources are crucial to enhance diabetes management.