Conceptual Model of Diabetes Self-Management for Middle-Aged Population of Rural Area of Pakistan

Background: The high prevalence of type 2 diabetes in Pakistan has been attributed to high-risk factors such as lack of physical activity, unhealthy food and eating habits among the Pakistani population. Aims: The main aim of this study is to explore the factors that may influence diabetes self-management in the middle-aged population of rural area of Pakistan and to present the potential outcomes. Materials and Methods: The study was guided by the results of systematic reviews of self-management of type 2 diabetes and highlighted five factors which are most important to influence the diabetes self-management. Of particular mention are the factors such as socio-demographic characteristics, behavioural and psychological characteristics, social support, self-management barriers and cultural characteristics in that population. Results: The potential outcomes derived from improved diabetes self-management in the middle-aged population include quality of life, reduction in HbA1c values and overall improvements in blood pressure and other cardiovascular risk factors. Conclusion: This study will help to improve the diabetes self-management approach in middle-aged population in rural area of Pakistan. The conceptual modeldeveloped in this study will provide a platform for future research and will help to better understand the contextual determinants of behaviours for future development of culturally appropriate interventions to support self-management activities.