Effectiveness of Health Behavior Program among Uncontrolled Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus Patients in Muang Mee Subdistrict, Mueang Nong Khai District, Nong Khai Province

Abstract

This research study is a quasi-experimental study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of a health behavior modification program on health behaviors and blood sugar levels in Type 2 diabetes patients who have difficulty controlling their blood sugar levels. The study sample consisted of Type 2 diabetes patients receiving services at a Diabetes clinic in Mueang Mee Subdistrict Health Promoting Hospital, Mueang Nong Khai District, Nong Khai Province. The research period was between September and November 2023. All participants received behavior modification according to the program designed by the researcher, which integrates aspects of both modern and alternative medicine. The total study period was 12 weeks, during which general data were collected. Diabetes knowledge, dietary behaviors, exercise habits, and emotional management were assessed using questionnaires, and blood samples were drawn and examined by a professional nurse. Data were analyzed using descriptive and comparative statistics, including the Paired t-test. The results of the study showed that after participating in the behavior modification program, the sample group demonstrated statistically significant increases (p-value < 0.05) in knowledge of healthy behaviors related to food consumption, exercise, and mood management. When comparing blood sugar values, it was observed that the average blood sugar level decreased from 161.28 mg/dL before joining the program to 135.28 mg/dL after joining the program. This decrease was statistically significant (Mean Difference = - 26.00, SD = 4.23, 95% CI: - 34.43 to - 17.57). Additionally, the percentage of accumulated sugar in the blood decreased from 7.93% before joining the program to 7.45% after joining the program. This difference was also statistically significant (Mean Difference = - 0.47, SD = 0.07, 95% CI: - 0.62 to - 0.32). In summary, the behavior modification program led to improvements in both health behaviors and blood sugar levels among Type 2 diabetes patients.