Abstract:
Background: Type II Diabetes (T2D) has been on the rise in recent times all over the
world with the worst upsurge occurring in developing countries. In developing countries
such as Ghana about half of diabetics are undiagnosed. This high number is found to be
associated with the poor utilization of health services which is key in detecting hidden
diseases. Health seeking behaviour is found to be directly associated with incidence and
prevalence of diseases such that it ensures early detection and immediate treatment which
delays disease progression. The objectives of this study was to determine the prevalence
of Type II Diabetes and identify the determinants of health seeking behaviour among
residents in the Ga South Municipality. Method: The study employed the cross-sectional
study design with sample size of 311. The weight and heights of participants were taken
to calculate the Body Mass Index (BMI). Blood was taken from the finger tips to
determine the blood glucose level using the Fasting Blood Glucose test kits. Afterwards
the health seeking behaviour questionnaire was administered to participants. Results:
The findings of the study showed prevalence of DM to be 9.9% (95%CI: 6.9%- 13.9%),
more than half (55.1%) of diabetics were undiagnosed. Increase in age, high BMI and
physical inactivity was found to be associated with increasing blood glucose level.
Inappropriate health seeking behaviour was observed in 50.8% of respondents. The
determinants of health seeking behaviour were found to be financial constraints, time
constraints, dependence on self-medication and use of local herbs, distance to health
facilities and symptoms of diseases being perceived as less serious. These factors were
associated with hospital utilization in the community. Conclusion: Age, BMI and
frequency of exercise was associated with Blood Glucose level. Determinants of health seeking behaviour was influenced by personal and community factors, current health
circumstance and socio-economic factors.
