ATTITUDES AND BEHAVIORS OF PATIENTS WITH TYPE 2 DIABETES MELLITUS REGARDING LIFESTYLE CHANGES

https://doi.org/10.71284/tjmhs.2026323

Abstract

Objective: In type 2 diabetes mellitus, which can lead to serious complications, lifestyle changes play a
significant role in reducing the problems that may arise from the disease. The aim of our study is to investigate
the knowledge, approaches, and behaviors regarding lifestyle modification among individuals with type 2
diabetes mellitus who receive services from family health centers.
Method: Between July 1, 2024, and December 31, 2024, a face-to-face questionnaire was administered to 300
patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus who visited the Barış, Safran, Kayabaşı, and Kartaltepe family health
centers affiliated with the Karabük Provincial Health Directorate. The questionnaire consisted of 31 questions
on sociodemographic data, diabetes, and lifestyle changes, and a 12-question Lifestyle Change Barriers Scale.
Results: Of the 300 participants in our study, 152 (50.7%) were male and 148 (49.3%) were female. Participants
ranged in age from 24 to 94 years, with a median age of 60.27. The average body mass index was 30.6. 61.3%
of participants made lifestyle changes. 45.7% prioritized healthy eating, and 36% engaged in regular physical
activity. 27.3% exercised three days a week, and 21.7% exercised for at least 150 minutes per week. Women
had higher disability scores than men, and individuals with income less than expenses had higher scores than
those with income greater than expenses. It was found that scale scores increased significantly as body mass
index increased.
Conclusion: The findings of our study highlight the importance of investigating gender, obesity levels, and
economic factors in developing interventions to support lifestyle changes.
Keywords: Family practice, Lifestyle changes, Type 2 Diabetes mellitus