The Factors Affecting the Attitude and Behavior for Hypoglycemia in Individuals with Diabetes Mellitus

Introduction: Hypoglycemia, a common complication in diabetes mellitus, can cause fear and negatively impact self-management. This study aimed to examine the effects of various factors on hypoglycemia attitudes and behaviors in individuals with diabetes mellitus.
Methods: This study was conducted as a prospective and descriptive study between November 2023 and March 2024 in Ankara, Türkiye, at the internal medicine outpatient clinic of a training and research hospital. For the collection of research data, a questionnaire and the Hypoglycemia Attitude and Behavior Scale were used.
Results: The study included 146 patients. Among participants, 90.4% had experienced hypoglycemia, 50% received education about hypoglycemia and 39% had severe hypoglycemia. Differences between the economic status, educational status, alcohol consumption, hospitalization due to diabetes in the last one year, experience of nocturnal hypoglycemia, receiving education about hypoglycemia, knowing the 15/15 rule for approaching hypoglycemia, and experience of severe hypoglycemia with the Hypoglycemia Attitude and Behavior Scale total scores were significant (p<0.05). According to the regression analysis, the Hypoglycemia Attitude and Behavior Scale score was 0.47 units higher in individuals who drank alcohol, 0.39 units higher in those experiencing nocturnal hypoglycemia, and 0.21 units higher in those aware of the 15/15 rule.
Discussion and Conclusion: Understanding factors affecting hypoglycemia attitudes and behaviors is essential for improving self-management in individuals with diabetes. Targeted education and lifestyle interventions can help reduce risks and enhance confidence.

Keywords: Attitude; Diabetes mellitus; Hypoglycemia