Knowledge and behavior to prevent type 2 diabetes in Khmer people 40 years and over in Tra Vinh province

Abstract

Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) is a chronic metabolic disorder characterized by reduced glucose metabolism due to insufficient or ineffective action of the insulin hormone on target tissues. Although there is no specific curative treatment for the disease, the risk factors can be prevented. A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted on 918 Khmer individuals aged 40 and above in Tra Vinh province. The objective was to describe their knowledge and preventive behaviors regarding T2DM. The results showed that the average age of the study participants was 56.8, with females accounting for 54.5%. The proportion of people who were aware of the symptoms, risk factors, and preventive dietary regimen for the disease were 35.1%, 16.8%, and 34.0%, respectively. The percentages of individuals engaging in at least 30 minutes of physical activity per day, smoking tobacco, and consuming six or more alcohol units in the past 30 days were 62.1%, 11.8%, and 40.1%, respectively. Gender, educational level, marital status, and knowledge of the disease were associated with preventive behaviors for T2DM (with a 95% con¿dence interval and statistical significance at p < 0.05). Appropriate communication strategies should be implemented to enhance the effectiveness of T2DM prevention in the target population.