Exploring the Socio-Cultural Dynamics of Newly Diagnosed Persons Living with Diabetes Mellitus: A Study at the Holy Family Hospital-Nkawkaw

Abstract

Diabetes mellitus is a growing public health concern that affects people universally both in developing and developed countries. The disease poses a serious threat to the lives of affected persons. Scientists and researchers despite their efforts, have not yet found a cure since its discovery. In Ghana, most affected persons have inappropriate thoughts about the condition which negatively affects the management. This study sought to explore the socio cultural dynamics of newly diagnosed persons living with diabetes mellitus among individuals who attended Holy Family Hospital at Nkawkaw. An exploratory descriptive qualitative research design was used to purposively sample fourteen (14) participants for the study. The participants were interviewed using a semi-structured interview guide which was developed using the research objectives. All interviews were conducted in English language from 5th May 2022 to 10th July 2022, audio recorded and lasted between 30 to 45 minutes. The Data was then analyzed using thematic analysis approach, to identify themes and subthemes. These themes were; general perception on the disease, beliefs on the symptoms, emotional manifestations, coping strategies and perception on the management of diabetes mellitus. The study revealed that, many of the participants perceive the condition to be a medical illness and encouraged other persons to report to the hospital immediately they observe the signs and symptoms. Few of them also attributed the cause of the disease to evil spirits. Some of the participants shared that they failed to honor their appointment dates due to the fear of needle pricks. Some expressed their confusion about varied information they received from the public domain about the treatment of the illness. This study therefore recommends the Ministry of Health and Ghana Health Service in collaboration with Ghana Media Commission to strictly regulate health information before they are transmitted to the general public. Moreso, researchers can explore ways in which nurses can prick patients without causing pain or monitor blood glucose level without pricking patients.