KNOWLEDGE, PRACTICES AND CHALLENGES TO DIABETES SELF-CARE MANAGEMENT AMONG TYPE 2 DIABETES MELLITUS PATIENT’S AT LIMBE REGIONAL HOSPITAL

Background: Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) requires continuous self-care to support glycemic control and reduce complications. This study assessed knowledge, self-care practices, and challenges among patients with T2DM attending Limbe Regional Hospital. Methods: A hospital-based descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted at Limbe Regional Hospital from February to June 2026. A convenience sampling technique was used to recruit participants. Data was collected using a structured questionnaire and analyzed using Microsoft Excel 2010 and SPSS version 20. The findings were presented in frequency distribution tables and also in charts. Results: The study revealed that 68.9% of participants demonstrated adequate knowledge of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus, while 31.1% had inadequate knowledge. Additionally, 61.0% of participants demonstrated good self-care management practices, whereas 39.0% had poor self-care management practices. The major challenges affecting self-care management included the high cost of diabetic medications and monitoring equipment, financial constraints affecting dietary adherence, inadequate physical activity, forgetfulness in taking medications, inadequate knowledge, and lack of family or social support. Conclusion: The majority of participants demonstrated adequate knowledge and good self-care management practices regarding Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus. However, financial constraints and other barriers continue to hinder optimal self-care management. Strengthening diabetes education, improving access to affordable diabetes care, and enhancing family and community support are essential to improve self-care practices and reduce diabetes-related complications.