Women with type 2 diabetes mellitus: sociodemographic profile, biometrics and health

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: To understand the profile of women with type 2 diabetes mellitus, focusing on sociodemographic factors, biometrics and health. METHODS: A quantitative, transversal, prospective study with a stratified random sample, conducted in Florianópolis/SC with 147 women by means of home visits between April and August of 2009. RESULTS: The women had a mean age of 66 years, presented elevated indexes of body weight, capillary glycemia and abdominal circumference, along with a low adherence to non-pharmacological treatment. A low educational level was associated with inadequate glycemic control, no physical activity, and inadequacy of the diet. CONCLUSIONS: Women with lower education constitute a vulnerable group and require health interventions congruent with their capacities of understanding and possibilities of adaptation to treatment.