AWARENESS OF THE CAUSES OF DIABETES AMONG UNDERGRADUATE STUDENTS IN THE UNIVERSITY OF BENIN

ABSTRACT

This study was carried out to assessthe awareness of the causes of diabetes among undergraduate students in the University of Benin. Three research questions were raised, answered and analyzed for the purpose of the study. 

A purposive sampling technique was used in selecting two-hundred (200) respondents from the students in the University of Benin for the purpose of the study. The data were collected with questionnaire instrument and analyzed using mean and standard deviation.

Findings from the study revealed that the students are aware of diabetes mellitus, knowing that diabetes mellitus is a metabolic diseases that raises blood sugar level resulting from the inability of the body to use the insulin produced or the inability of the body to produce enough insulin. Also that the students are conversant with the causes of diabetes mellitus and they are aware that older individuals are susceptible to diabetes mellitus. The students are knowledgeable about the complications which can result if an individual is diabetic.

This study implies that there is a great awareness and understanding about diabetes with regard to a number of study items, such as its causes and complications and effects on other organs. However it is still necessary and important to increase the general awareness of diabetes beyond the students to ensure their attitudes is sustained effectively. This might be attained through public health initiatives that promote healthier lifestyles.