Knowledge on Risk Factors of Coronary Artery Disease among Patients with Diabetes Mellitus

Abstract

Background: Coronary Artery Disease (CAD) and Diabetes Mellitus (DM) are two of the most prevalent chronic diseases worldwide. People with diabetes are two to four times more likely to die from heart disease. A better understanding of the risk factors may improve the clinical management, prevention outcomes, etc. This study aimed to assess the knowledge on risk factors of coronary artery disease among patients with diabetes mellitus and to find the association between these factors and selected demographic variables.

Methodology: A quantitative non-experimental descriptive design was employed, involving a non-probability convenience sample of 150 diabetic patients. A structured questionnaire was administered for data collection to assess the knowledge on risk factors of coronary artery disease among patients with diabetic mellitus.

Result: Among the participants, the results indicated that 75.3% average knowledge, 22% had adequate knowledge, and 2.7% had inadequate knowledge regarding risk factors of coronary artery disease. Chi-square analysis showed no significant association between knowledge levels and demographic variables, including age, gender, education, occupation, dietary habits, duration of diabetes, comorbidities, alcohol and smoking habits, or exercise (p > 0.05).

Conclusion: This study found that most of the diabetic patients had average knowledge of coronary artery disease risk factors, with no significant association between knowledge levels and selected demographic variables. The results underscore the need for broad-based educational interventions to improve CAD awareness among diabetic patients, regardless of demographic differences.