Background of the Study
Type 2 diabetes is a growing public health concern worldwide, and its prevalence is rising in Nigeria, including in rural communities of Ekiti State. Despite its increasing incidence, awareness and understanding of type 2 diabetes remain low among rural dwellers, primarily due to limited health education and restricted access to healthcare services (Afolabi, 2023; Ogunleye, 2024). Rural communities often depend on traditional beliefs and local remedies, which can lead to misconceptions about the causes, symptoms, and management of diabetes. In Ekiti State, the challenges of inadequate healthcare infrastructure and low literacy levels further compound these issues, hindering early diagnosis and effective management of the disease.
Awareness of type 2 diabetes is essential for preventing complications and reducing mortality rates. With the transition from traditional lifestyles to more sedentary habits influenced by modern technology, even rural areas are witnessing lifestyle changes that predispose individuals to diabetes. Enhanced community education and outreach programs have the potential to improve diabetes awareness and encourage preventive behaviors such as regular physical activity and dietary modifications (Ibrahim, 2024). By assessing the level of diabetes awareness among rural populations, this study aims to provide insights into existing knowledge gaps and inform strategies for targeted health education interventions.
Statement of the Problem
In Ekiti State, rural dwellers exhibit low levels of awareness regarding type 2 diabetes, leading to delayed diagnosis and poor disease management. Limited health education, coupled with inadequate access to healthcare facilities, has resulted in widespread misconceptions about diabetes. Many rural residents attribute diabetes symptoms to supernatural causes or traditional illnesses, leading them to seek help from unqualified sources rather than professional medical care (Eze, 2023). This lack of awareness is exacerbated by economic constraints and the limited reach of modern communication channels in rural areas. Consequently, preventable complications such as cardiovascular diseases, neuropathy, and kidney failure are more common among these populations. The existing gap in diabetes awareness not only increases the burden on the healthcare system but also adversely affects the quality of life and economic productivity in rural communities. Addressing this problem is critical to improving early detection, promoting preventive health measures, and reducing the overall impact of type 2 diabetes in Ekiti State.
Objectives of the Study
1. To assess the level of type 2 diabetes awareness among rural dwellers in Ekiti State.
2. To identify the factors that influence diabetes awareness in rural settings.
3. To propose effective health education strategies to improve diabetes knowledge and prevention.
Research Questions
1. What is the current level of awareness of type 2 diabetes among rural populations in Ekiti State?
2. What socio-cultural and economic factors affect diabetes awareness in these communities?
3. How can health education interventions be tailored to improve diabetes awareness among rural dwellers?
Research Hypotheses
1. Lower literacy levels are significantly associated with reduced awareness of type 2 diabetes.
2. Limited access to healthcare services correlates with lower diabetes awareness.
3. Targeted health education interventions will significantly increase diabetes awareness in rural communities.
Scope and Limitations of the Study
This study focuses on rural communities in Ekiti State. Data will be collected via structured surveys, interviews, and focus group discussions. Limitations include potential sampling bias and the variability in cultural practices across different rural areas.
Definitions of Terms
• Type 2 Diabetes: A chronic condition characterized by insulin resistance and high blood sugar levels.
• Diabetes Awareness: The level of knowledge about diabetes causes, symptoms, prevention, and management.
• Rural Dwellers: Residents living in non-urban areas with limited access to modern healthcare facilities.
• Health Education: Programs designed to improve knowledge and promote healthy behaviors.
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