Awareness Level of Diabetes Mellitus Patients About Hypoglycemia Attacks and Management in Cluster 1, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

TL;DR

This study found that most diabetes patients in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, lack awareness and proper management of hypoglycemia, highlighting the need for better education.

Contribution

The study provides new insights into hypoglycemia awareness and management practices among diabetic patients in Cluster 1, Riyadh.

Findings

Most participants (72.6%) had low awareness of hypoglycemia management.

Only 27.4% of patients demonstrated good knowledge of managing low blood sugar.

Type 2 diabetes was the most common diagnosis among participants.

Abstract

Background

Diabetes mellitus is a common chronic condition that presents significant challenges for patients, particularly in managing hypoglycemia. The frequency of hypoglycemic episodes can significantly impact patients' quality of life and long-term health outcomes.

Aim

This study aimed to assess the awareness and management of hypoglycemia among people living with diabetes in Cluster 1, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, focusing on their knowledge, practices, and preparedness for managing hypoglycemia.

Methods

This cross-sectional study involved 299 patients with diabetes from healthcare centers in Cluster 1, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, in the period between February 1, 2025, and August 20, 2025. Data were collected through a structured survey that assessed demographic characteristics, knowledge of hypoglycemia, blood glucose monitoring practices, and preparedness for hypoglycemic episodes. The study also explored sources of information, frequency of healthcare consultations, and confidence in managing low blood sugar. Descriptive and statistical analyses were used to evaluate relationships between variables such as diabetes type, experience with hypoglycemia, and healthcare consultation frequency.

Results

The study included 299 patients with diabetes, with a higher proportion of male patients (187; 62.5%) compared to female patients (112; 37.5%). Age distribution was varied, with 63 (21.1%) participants aged 18-30 years, 63 (21.1%) aged 31-45 years, 104 (34.8%) aged 46-60 years, and 69 (23.1%) over 60 years of age. Type 2 diabetes was the most common diagnosis (62.5%), followed by Type 1 diabetes (n=76; 25.4%). The majority of participants exhibited poor knowledge regarding hypoglycemia, with 217 (72.6%) patients classified as having low awareness. Only 82 (27.4%) demonstrated good knowledge of hypoglycemia management.

Conclusions

This study reveals a low level of awareness and management of hypoglycemia among diabetic patients in Riyadh. There is a clear need for targeted education programs that address both the prevention and management of low blood sugar.

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