Lay explanations and self-management of diabetes in Kathmandu, Nepal

Objectives: This research explores the lay explanations and self-management of diabetes among residents in greater Kathmandu, Nepal. Methods: Interviews were done with 300 respondents drawn from diabetes patient listings and members of a national diabetes club. Sociodemographic and health-related data were collected with two standardized instruments: the Illness Perception Questionnaire and the Summary of Diabetes Self-Care Activities. Hierarchical ordinary least squares regression analyses were employed to examine predictors of self-management of diabetes. Results: Across seven equations, R-2 values ranged from .020 to .221, and with the exception of one domain of self-management (blood sugar testing), one or more lay explanatory factors entered each equation. Discussion: Respondents from this sample appear to hold lay explanations of diabetes that are similar to those of their peers in developed nations. Findings are discussed, including the caveat that these mostly male, relatively educated, and urban-residing adults with diabetes are not necessarily representative of Nepali society.