Patient perceptions of factors that affect adherence to dietary regimens for diabetes mellitus.

The purpose of this study was to identify how selected factors influence patient use of diet regimens for diabetes and to determine the effect of demographic characteristics. A survey was conducted using a 75-item questionnaire designed to collect responses from people with non-insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus. Frequency distributions and chi-square analyses were performed on the survey data. Five significant relationships were identified: (1) age and emotions, (2) age and schedule, (3) gender and emotions, (4) use of a diet plan and being told why to control diet, and (5) use of a diet plan and return for follow-up education. Dietitians need to consider demographic characteristics to tailor education sessions and to focus on improving communication with patients to increase their understanding of diabetes. This study showed that increased education promoted increased adherence to dietary recommendations.