AWARENESS LEVEL TOWARD MANAGEMENT OF HYPOGLYCEMIA AMONG TEACHERS IN THE KINGDOM OF SAUDI ARABIA: A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY.
Abstract
Introduction : Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus (DM1) is predominant in Saudi Arabia. Over 2500 children aged 0-14 are diagnosed with DM1 yearly. And one of the acute complications of the disease is hypoglycemia. It occurs when blood glucose level falls below 3.9 mmol/L. The early symptoms of hypoglycemia are headache, palpitation, pallor, hunger, and sweating. When the late signs will appear as decrease in level of consciousness and seizures. Hypoglycemia is a common and serious condition that might be fatal if not treated properly. Teachers must be aware of the correct management in dealing with hypoglycemic episode in diseased students, to prevent any further complications of the attack. Objective: This study aims to determine the knowledge, awareness and attitude regarding hypoglycemia management among Saudi schoolteachers. Methodology: This is an observational cross-sectional study conducted in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia among schoolteachers. The calculated minimum sample size with 95% level of confidence is 384 teachers. Data collected using an electronic self-administered questionnaire and analyzed using SPSS version 20. Results: The study examined the awareness level of teachers in Saudi Arabia regarding the management of hypoglycemia, involving 397 participants. The demographic analysis revealed a predominantly female cohort (65.2%) with an average age of 44.9 years. Notably, 99.3% of teachers recognized the importance of understanding hypoglycemia symptoms, and 97.5% supported training in blood glucose meter use. Despite a high participation rate (83.9%), significant knowledge gaps were identified, with 65% of participants categorized as low in hypoglycemia communication skills. Engagement was notably influenced by factors such as having a diabetic child and gender, indicating areas for targeted educational interventions. Conclusion: In conclusion, while our study indicates a commendable level of awareness and participation among Saudi teachers regarding hypoglycemia management, significant gaps in knowledge and practice remain.