Factors Associated with Blood Glucose Control in Diabetic Patients, Ban Pho Subdistrict, Mueang District, Trang Province

Abstract

This study aimed to examine the level of knowledge, perceived self-efficacy in blood sugar control, health behaviors, and factors associated with glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c) control among patients with diabetes. A total of 199 participants receiving services at Ban Pho Subdistrict Health Promoting Hospital, Trang Province, were selected using a cross-sectional analytical research design. Data were collected using a questionnaire that had been validated for content validity (IOC) and reliability (Cronbach’s alpha = 0.88). Descriptive statistics and Chi-square tests were employed for data analysis. The results revealed that most participants were female, with an average age of 64 years, primary education, and an average monthly income of 5,000 baht. Most had a body mass index (BMI) in the overweight to obese range. A total of 66.3% were unable to control their HbA1c (HbA1c > 7%). Diabetes-related knowledge was at a high level (77.9%), while perceived self-efficacy and health behaviors were at moderate levels (62.3% and 67.8%, respectively). The factors significantly associated with HbA1c control (p < 0.05) included occupation, presence of comorbidities, and hypertension. Other factors such as gender, age, income, BMI, duration of illness, knowledge, perceived self-efficacy, and health behaviors showed no significant association. The findings highlight the necessity of comprehensive health promotion interventions that enhance learning, self-care skills, and risk factor management, particularly for patients with comorbid conditions and limitations in occupation or socioeconomic status to achieve better glycemic control and reduce long-term complications.