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Alshammari Abdullah Mohammad , Mohamed Elnaem , Siew Chin Ong^*✉

1. School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, 11800 USM, Pulau Pinang, Malaysia, ORCID: 0009-0005-0106-4254.
2. Lecturer in Clinical Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Life and Health Sciences, Ulster University, Northern Ireland, UK.
3. Programme Chairman, Discipline of Social and Administrative Pharmacy, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, 11800 USM, Pulau Pinang, Malaysi, ORCID: 0000-0002-9750-9588.

Abstract

Diabetes mellitus type 2 is a prevalent chronic condition in Saudi Arabia, posing significant health risks. Understanding the health beliefs and behaviors of diabetes patients is crucial for developing effective interventions. This study explores the perceptions and behaviors of diabetes type 2 patients in Hail City using the Health Belief Model (HBM) to identify areas for intervention to improve diabetes management. A qualitative study was conducted with 12 diabetes type 2 patients, aged 18-65, in Hail City. Structured open-ended interviews based on the HBM framework were used to gather data on perceptions of susceptibility, severity, benefits, barriers, cues to action, and self-efficacy. Thematic analysis was applied to identify key themes. Participants demonstrated varied perceptions of susceptibility to diabetes complications, with some showing heightened awareness due to family history. Most acknowledged the benefits of diabetes management but cited significant barriers such as medication costs and dietary challenges. Healthcare professional advice and specific symptoms were identified as key cues to action. Self-efficacy levels varied, with some patients confident in managing their condition and others expressing doubts. The findings align with existing literature on HBM and diabetes management. Tailored interventions addressing identified barriers, emphasizing benefits, and enhancing self-efficacy are recommended. Limitations include a small sample size, suggesting the need for larger studies.

Understanding the health beliefs and behaviors of diabetes patients using the HBM can inform targeted interventions to improve diabetes management in Hail City, contributing to better patient outcomes‎.

Keywords: Diabetes mellitus type 2, Pharmacy, Health education, Health belief model, Saudi Arabia

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