Educational intervention in men with diabetes mellitus: effects on behavior and anthropometric profile

Objective  To analyze the effectiveness of self-care based on health behaviors and anthropometric data of men with type 2 diabetes mellitus.

Methods  Cluster randomized clinical trial in a municipality in southern Brazil with 73 men aged 40 to 70 years, recruited from ten Basic Health Units. The intervention consisted of two meetings and was based on the principles of Supported Self-Care and operated by Behavior Change Protocol. Statistical analysis included association and comparison tests between the variables studied.

Results  Increased weekly frequency of consumption of cereals and derivatives (p=0.033), meat and sausages (p=0.003), decreased consumption of roots and tubers (p=0.044). Discreet and non-significant decrease in Waist Circumference, Hip Circumference and Waist-Hip Ratio was found, in addition to a non-significant increase in weight, Body Fat Percentage and Body Mass Index.

Conclusion  Intervention based on supported self-care has produced important positive effects, but should be considered a partially effective strategy to change health behaviors and anthropometric profile of adult men with type 2 diabetes mellitus.

Self care; Diabetes mellitus; Men’s health; Primary health care; Health behavior; Body composition