Compliance with Therapeutic Nutrition and Physical Activity among Diabetes Patients at Murtala Muhammad Specialist Hospital, Kano State

Dalhatu Adamu¹, Adamu Nuhu Lawan², Fatima Usman¹, Adamu Alhaji³

¹ Department of Nursing Science, Bayero University, Kano, Nigeria
² Department of Nursing Science, Modibbo Adama University, Yola, Nigeria
³ Department of Nursing Science, Federal University of Health Sciences, Azare, Nigeria

*Corresponding author’s Email: adamudalhatu206@gmail.com, doi.org/10.55639/607.02010065


ABSTRACT

Nutritional therapy and physical activity are essential in managing type 2 diabetes, yet adherence to these lifestyle practices remains poor in low resource settings. This study assessed knowledge of dietary guidelines, nutrition and physical activity recommendations compliance, and factors influencing non-adherence among adults with type 2 diabetes attending Murtala Muhammad Specialist Hospital, Kano. A descriptive cross-sectional design was used, involving 379 purposively selected patients. Data were collected through a validated questionnaire (Cronbach’s α = 0.81) adapted from Mugo (2018). Descriptive statistics summarized sociodemographic data, knowledge, compliance, and barriers, while Chi-square tests evaluated associations at p < 0.05. Although 86.0% of respondents showed good knowledge of nutrition and exercise, overall compliance was only moderate (mean = 2.76), with 40.4% high, 41.4% moderate, and 18.2% low adherence. Participants adhered best to avoiding high-sugar and fatty foods (mean = 2.88) and following prescribed diet plans (mean = 2.94). However, they were least compliant in fruit and vegetable intake (mean = 2.66) and physical activity (mean = 2.54). Significant barriers included the high cost of recommended diets (93.4%), forgetfulness (83.4%), and inability to afford exercise facilities (79.9%). Compliance was significantly associated with educational level (χ² = 9.46, p = 0.024). Strengthening affordable, culturally tailored nutrition and exercise programs could enhance adherence and glycemic control in Northern Nigeria.

Keywords:

Type 2
diabetes mellitus,
Therapeutic
nutrition,
Nigeria