Page No.222-227.
Rukhsana Kausar, Bushra Awan, and Nashi Khan
University of the Punjab, Lahore, Pakistan
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The present study examined the risk perception related to diabetes and its
complications and emotional distress experienced by patients with Type II diabetes.
It was hypothesized that: a) male and female diabetic patients are likely to differ in
the level of emotional distress and risk perception; b) the level of emotional distress
and risk perception of patients with diabetes are likely to correlate. The sample
comprised 100 patients with Type II diabetes and was recruited from a diabetic
clinic of a teaching hospital in Lahore, Pakistan. Risk Perception Survey-Diabetes
Mellitus Scale and Diabetes Distress Scale were administered individually to the
participants. Data was analyzed using independent sample t test and Pearson
product moment correlation. Female patients reported significantly more emotional
distress as compared to male patients. The findings highlight the significance of
psychological services for patients with diabetes to help them deal with emotional
distress. Male patients perceived more diabetes-related risk compared to female
patients. A significant relationship was found between emotional distress and risk
perception of patients. Findings have very important implications for patients, their
families, and healthcare professionals.
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