Abstract

Introduction: The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of an educational program, based on Health Belief Model (HBM), on control sugar in women with type 2 diabetes. Materials and Method: This perspective, quasi-experimental intervention study was carried out on 88 women with type 2 diabetes. Data was collected using a questionnaire based on the health belief model, a checklist related to patient practices and recording patient HbA₁c and FBS levels. All group completed the questionnaire and checklist. Results were documented before and three months after intervention. The patients of the experimental group participated in 4 educational classes during the one month of intervention and again two months after, with 2 sessions as the follow up of the intervention. Data were collected and analyzed. Results : Our findings indicated that mean scores of HBM Model variables, i.e susceptibility, severity, benefit and barriers perceived, were significantly increased in the experimental group compared to controls after intervention. Also, behavioral walking, rates of HbA₁c (before intervention - 9.59%, after three months - 8.63%) and FBS levels (before intervention 184.63, after three months 151.29) improved significantly among the experimental group, compared to controls (p<0/001). Conclusion: Applying the HBM Model proved is very effective in developing an educational program for diabetics, to control their blood sugar and enhance walking. Besides such programs, follow up education for controlling and monitoring are highly recommended.