Awareness of Complications of Diabetes Mellitus Among Hospital Staff and Medical Trainees: A Questionnaire-Based Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

Background: Diabetes Mellitus is one of the most common chronic metabolic disorders worldwide and is associated with multiple microvascular and macrovascular complications. Healthcare professionals and trainees are expected to have adequate awareness regarding these complications to ensure early detection and management.

Objective:
To assess the awareness of complications of Diabetes Mellitus among medical, dental and nursing students as well as hospital staff.

Methods:
A cross-sectional questionnaire-based study was conducted among 300 participants including 100 MBBS medical students and interns, 50 BDS dental students, 50 nursing students, and 100 hospital staff (nurses and technicians). The study was conducted across two medical colleges, two dental colleges, three nursing colleges and one private hospital in India. A structured 15-item Likert scale questionnaire assessing awareness of diabetic complications was used. Responses were recorded on a five-point Likert scale ranging from strongly disagree to strongly agree. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and chi-square tests.

Results:
Overall awareness regarding common complications such as diabetic neuropathy and nephropathy was moderate to high among medical students (78%) but comparatively lower among hospital staff (56%). Knowledge regarding diabetic retinopathy was highest among MBBS students (82%) and lowest among technicians (48%). Awareness of macrovascular complications such as cardiovascular disease was moderate across all groups (65%). Significant differences were observed between participant groups (p < 0.05).

Conclusion:
Although healthcare trainees showed better awareness compared to hospital staff, gaps remain regarding long-term complications of Diabetes Mellitus. Periodic educational programs and continuing medical education (CME) sessions are recommended to improve knowledge among healthcare workers.