Predictors of Diabetes Self-Management Behaviour Among Type 2 Diabetics in Saudi Arabia: A Cross-Sectional Study

Background: Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) requires effective self -care behaviors and social support to manage the condition and prevent complications. This study aimed to examine the influence of demographic characteristics and perceived social support on diabetes self -management behaviors in individuals with T2DM. Methods: An analytical cross-sectional design was employed to collect data from 300 T2DM patients using validated questionnaires from April to May 2023. Self -care behaviors were assessed using a Summary of Diabetes Self -Care Activities -Arabic (SDSCAArabic), while perceived social support was measured using a Diabetes Care Profile (DCP) using an Arabic Social Support subscale. Descriptive statistics, correlation analysis, and regression analysis were performed to examine the relationships and predictors of selfcare behaviors. Results: Patients exhibited varying levels of self -care behaviors, with exercise and blood sugar testing being the most frequently reported activities. Additionally, the findings revealed that health education on self -examining regarding the feet, exercising, comorbidities, perceived social support, medical insurance, and gender were significant predictors of diabetes self -management behaviors. These factors collectively accounted for 21.2% of the variance in self -management behavior levels. Specifically, health education on self -examining regarding the feet (13 = -0.286, p = 0.001) and exercising (13 = -0.175, p = 0.001) showed a negative association, while perceived social support (13 = 0.235, p = 0.001) demonstrated a positive association with self -management behaviors. Conclusion: The study highlights the importance of comprehensive health education programs that address multiple aspects of diabetes management and the role of social support in fostering better self -management behaviors. It also emphasizes the influence of demographic factors on self -management, with individuals with higher comorbidities exhibiting better self -management behaviors and those with medical insurance showing poorer self -management behaviors. These findings have implications for nursing practice, suggesting the need for tailored interventions, effective education, and support networks to enhance self -management behaviors in T2DM patients.