Social Support and Adherence to Dietary Recommendations among Type II Diabetes Patients attending Federal Medical Centre, Idi Aba, Abeokuta, Nigeria

Abstract

Background: Dietary modification is one of the integral parts of type II diabetes mellitus management. This gives a desired result when the dietary recommendations are strictly adhered to. Objective: This study was conducted to assess the social support and adherence to dietary recommendations among type II diabetes patients attending Federal Medical Centre Abeokuta. Methodology: A descriptive cross-sectional study involving 100 respondents selected randomly among type 2 diabetes patients at endocrinology clinic of medical outpatient department, Federal Medical Centre Abeokuta. Using a semi-structured and interviewer administered questionnaire, data on socio demographic characteristics, dietary recommendation, factors affecting dietary recommendation adherence and social support were obtained. Data obtained were analysed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS), version 25.0 Results: Most (70.0%) of the study population were female, sixty years and above (45%), and married (66%). Majority (80%) had access to various social supports and 52% adhered to these dietary recommendations. Taste and food preference was identify as the major (27%) factors affecting the adherence to dietary recommendations Conclusion: A high proportion of the study population had access to various social supports but low adherence to dietary recommendations was identified. More awareness and sensitisation on the health implications of non-adherence to dietary recommendations in diabetes management is imperative.