Iranian Journal of

Background: Education is important aspect of diabetes management and important part of care for these patients. This study aimed to assess the effects of peer education on self-care behaviors among diabetic patients                            

Methods: In this randomized controlled trial, 80 type 2 diabetic patients were selected and randomly allocated into two groups of intervention and control. In the intervention group, In addition to routine training center, patients were receiving health and self- care education in the field of diabetes by peer. In the control group, patients were receiving usual education in accordance with normal procedures by doctors and nurses and through posters and pamphlets of the diabetes center. Study instruments included a questionnaire for demographic variables and self-care behaviors questionnaire (Summary of Diabetes Self-care Activities). Validity and reliability of questionnaire has been confirmed in previous studies. Data were collected at baseline and 12 weeks after the intervention.  Data analysis was done using SPSS V.18. 

Results: After the intervention, mean score of self-care behaviors in the intervention group was increased and showed a significant difference in self-care behaviors between two groups (independent t- test, P=0.001).  In the intervention group, statistically significant difference was found before and after the intervention (paired t-test, P=0.001), whereas in the control group this difference was not statistically significant (paired t-test, p=0/28).                             

Conclusion:  Peer education can improve self-care behaviors. Thus use of this method along with other training methods is recommended.