Abstract:
Background: Diabetes mellitus is a complex and prevalent chronic medical condition, that
remains a major global health concern. Type 1 diabetes, also known as insulin-dependent diabetes,
primarily affects young individuals, and is often diagnosed before the age of 40 years. This trend
underscores the need for effective strategies to address the unique challenges faced by this
demographic.
Objective: To examine the effectiveness of patient education and monitoring on insulin therapy
adherence and glycaemic control in physically active patients under 40 years of age
Method: This prospective longitudinal study was conducted at the endocrine clinic of the District
General Hospital in Polonnaruwa for three months. A random sampling technique was employed
to assign 100 patients each to a test group and a control group. Patients prescribed insulin for at
least three months and age of 40 years or below were included while, patients who were unable to
answer and those not prescribed with insulin were excluded. Over the period, the test group
received structured interventions, including telephone follow-ups, counselling sessions while the
control group received standard care. Clinical measurements were taken and data were analysed
using descriptive statistics.
Results: At baseline, the test group had mean FBS 164.5 mg/dL, PPBS 235.6 mg/dL, and HbA1C
8.45%, which reduced to 129.7 mg/dL, 188.2 mg/dL, and 7.28% after three months. The control
group showed smaller reductions (FBS 160.4 to 144.3 mg/dL, PPBS 231.8 to 207.4 mg/dL,
HbA1C 8.41% to 7.78%). Reductions in FBS, PPBS, and HbA1C were seen in 92%, 90%, and
90% of the test group vs 56%, 60%, and 54% in controls. HbA1C reduction was significantly
greater in the test group (-1.17% vs -0.63%, p<0.05). Knowledge improved in 93.09% of the test
group vs 14.3% of controls.
Conclusion: This study shows that structured education significantly improves glycaemic control
and diabetes knowledge in young insulin-dependent patients. Key markers like FBS, PPBS, and
HbA1C improved notably in the intervention group. Educated patients were more compliant and
engaged in self-management. Empowering patients with information fosters better decision
making and self-management in diabetes care.
