Diabetes results in a host of macro- and micro-vascular complications. It is estimated that over 2 million people are suffering from diabetes and nearly 4 million adults have dysglycaemia. Prevalence of diabetes in Sri Lanka, which was around 2.0 % in the early nineties has increased by about five-fold during the last two decades. Sri Lanka is a middle income developing country in the South Asian region with a population of nearly 21 million. More evidence is needed to support or refute the claims about ‘special’ foods that the participants believe as being good for diabetes.ĭiabetes mellitus is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide, with an estimated 80 % of the affected population living in developing countries like Sri Lanka. There were many myths with regards to diet, some of which have originated from health care professionals. Conclusionsĭespite understanding the importance of dietary control and physical activity in the management of diabetes, adherence to practices were poor, mainly due to lack of clarity of information provided. However, there was lack of consensus and clarity with regards to type, duration, timing and frequency of physical activity. Most study participants were aware of the importance of being physical active. The majority thought that there were ‘special’ foods that help to control blood glucose, the most common being curry leaves and bitter-gourd. Many believed that fruits were bad for diabetes, while vegetables were considered as a healthy food choice. They believed that ‘good’ foods can be consumed at all times, irrespective of quantity and ‘bad’ foods should be completely avoided. The majority described a list of ‘good foods’ and ‘bad foods’ for DM. But most had difficulty in incorporating this knowledge into their lives mostly due to social circumstances. All were aware of the importance of diet in the management of DM. Mean duration of diabetes was 10.4 ± 7.5 years. Mean age was 61.2 ± 9.9 years and 46 % were males. Directed content analysis of qualitative data was done with the help of NVIVO v10.0. Verbatim recording and documenting emotional responses were conducted by two independent observers. Data were collected via 10 Focus Group Discussions. Methodsįifty adults from a cohort of diabetic patients attending the medical clinics at the National Hospital of Sri Lanka were invited for the study. The present study aims to evaluate the knowledge and perceptions about dietary patterns and physical activity among a group of adults with DM in Sri Lanka using qualitative research methods. Diet and physical activity are important modifiable risk factors affecting the incidence, severity and management of DM. Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a rapidly growing health concern in Sri Lanka.
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