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Self‐esteem as a characteristic of adherence to diabetes and dental self‐care regimens
Author(s) -
Kneckt Mirka C.,
KeinänenKiukaanniemi Sirkka M.,
Knuuttila Matti L. E.,
Syrjälä AnnaMaija H.
Publication year - 2001
Publication title -
journal of clinical periodontology
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 3.456
H-Index - 151
eISSN - 1600-051X
pISSN - 0303-6979
DOI - 10.1034/j.1600-051x.2001.028002175.x
Subject(s) - logistic regression , medicine , diabetes mellitus , self esteem , self care , cross sectional study , oral health , clinical psychology , dental care , dentistry , health care , pathology , economic growth , economics , endocrinology
Background, aims: There are biological associations between diabetes control and oral infections. We have also found psychological associations between diabetes self‐care and oral health behavior. The aim of this study was to evaluate whether self‐esteem can determine diabetes adherence and oral health behavior, both of with require daily, persistent self‐care. Method: Cross‐sectional data on 149 IDDM patients was collected by means of a quantitative self‐completed questionnaire. Results: High self‐esteem was found to relate to good adherence with exercise regimens ( p =0.005) and adjustment of insulin doses ( p =0.040). These associations were also found when standardized for socio‐demographic variables and HbA1 c ‐level. In the dental sphere, logistic regression analysis showed an association between self‐esteem and frequency of tooth brushing. Conclusions: It can be concluded that self‐esteem may be a common psychological factor influencing diabetes and dental self‐care. Strengthening patients’ self‐esteem could help patients to maintain daily self‐care.