EVALUATION OF KNOWLEDGE, NUTRITIONAL STATUS, AND DIETARY INTAKE OF PEOPLE LIVING WITH DIABETES IN SPECIALIST HOSPITAL BAUCHI.

ABSTRACT This study evaluated the knowledge, nutritional status, and dietary intake of people living with diabetes attending the Specialist Hospital Bauchi, Nigeria. A descriptive cross-sectional survey design was adopted to assess the socio-demographic characteristics, medical history, nutritional knowledge, and dietary habits of diabetic patients. A total of 150 respondents were selected using a simple random sampling technique from a population of 850 registered patients. Data were collected using a structured, validated questionnaire covering socio-demographics, diabetes history, nutrition knowledge, and dietary frequency. The data were analyzed using SPSS version 26, employing descriptive and inferential statistics such as frequencies, percentages, and chi-square tests at a 0.05 significance level. Findings revealed that most respondents were aged between 40 and 49 years, with females constituting 56% of the study population. Approximately 70% had at least secondary education, and 58% earned below ₦30,000 monthly. A large majority (74%) were diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes, and 90% reported adherence to prescribed medications. Despite this, 38% had developed complications, and 40% reported comorbidities such as hypertension or obesity. Awareness of the dietary role in diabetes management was high (88%), and 68% consumed vegetables daily; however, misconceptions persisted as 12% believed fruits should be restricted. Only 26% of respondents practiced daily blood glucose monitoring, indicating gaps in self-management. The study concludes that while general nutrition knowledge among diabetic patients is encouraging, practical translation into consistent self-care behaviors remains limited. Socioeconomic status, education, and access to resources significantly influence dietary adherence and glucose monitoring. It recommends strengthening continuous nutrition education, subsidizing self-monitoring tools, and integrating dietitians into diabetes care teams to enhance effective management and reduce complications.