Factors associated with insulin self-administration by diabetes mellitus patients in the Family Health Strategy

This cross-sectional study aimed to compare two groups of patients with diabetes mellitus treated under the Family Health Strategy, with insulin self-administration versus non-self-administration, in relation to socio-demographic variables, perceived difficulties, and the person responsible for the self-application. A total of 269 patients participated, included through simple random sampling, from 37 Family Health Strategy units in the urban area of a municipality in the State of Minas Gerais, Brazil. The self-administration group consisted of 169 individuals (62.8%), as compared to 100 (37.2%) in the non-self-administration group. Comparing the two groups, schooling was statistically significant; 45% of those who did not self-administer reported absence of physical or cognitive difficulties that might prevent them from conducting the procedure, demonstrating the potential for adherence; 90% reported needing assistance in the insulin administration process at home, and of these, 75% reported receiving assistance from family members. The Family Health Strategy favors the development of interventions centered on users' needs, encouraging them to adopt and develop self-care skills, and the results of the present study can contribute to the planning of such interventions.