Prevalence of Type II Diabetes and Derterminants of Health Seeking Behaviour in the Ga South Municipality

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.