Original scientific paper

Mixed Feelings about the Diagnosis of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: A Consequence of Adjusting To Health Related Quality Of Life

LL Low ; University of Malaya, Faculty of Medicine, Medical Education Research Development Unit, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
SF Tong ; University Kebangsaan Malaysia, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Family Medicine, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
WY Low ; University of Malaya, Faculty of Medicine, Dean’s office, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Abstract

This study aims to explore patients’ reactions to the diagnosis of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and their health related quality of life. We adopted a qualitative exploratory study design using a thematic analysis. Twelve patients with T2DM for more than a 2-year duration were interviewed using a semi-structured interview guide. Both purposive and theoretical samplings were used for data collection. The in-depth interviews were audio-taped and transcribed verbatim, followed by line-by-line coding and constant comparison to identify the themes. Data management was facilitated using Nvivo 10. Patients shared their mixed feelings about the diagnosis of T2DM. Six domains of quality of life emerged from these interviews, namely physical and social functioning, work function and social obligations, dietary freedom and conforming to treatment standard. Diabetes management needs to take these themes and patients’ feelings associated with their quality of life into consideration.

Keywords

diabetes mellitus; help-seeking behaviour; quality of life; coping; qualitative research

Hrčak ID:

120776

URI

https://hrcak.srce.hr/120776

Publication date:

31.3.2014.

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