Gerontology & Geriatric Research

Abstract

The Relationship between Literacy Level and Coronary Risk Factors in Diabetic Patients

Khademi M and Jahanlou AS

Background: Diabetes and illiteracy are common problems in developing countries. In studies on diabetes and cardiac risk factors, literacy level, especially illiteracy, is not adequately addressed. Coronary heart disease (CHD) is a major complication of diabetes and the leading cause of premature death. The purpose of the study was to examine the relationship between literacy level and coronary risk factors in Non-Insulin Dependent Diabetes Mellitus (NIDDM) patients. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted in an urban federally funded diabetic’s clinic in Bandar Abbas, Iran. The sample consisted of 256 diabetic patients who were classified into three groups: Illiterates, low-literates and literates. The coronary risk factors were delimited to HbA1C, LDL, HDL, total cholesterol (TC), Triglyceride (TG), Body Mass Index (BMI), and blood pressure. Results: 67.5% of the patients were female, 42.1% illiterates, and 70% were overweight. The measures of TC and BMI were higher among females than males. Differences among the literacy levels based on LDL, TC, HDL, and TG were statistically significant. Conclusion: According to our findings, literacy level does not have a role in glycemic control, but may affect LDL, HDL, TC and TG.