Health-seeking behaviours and sociocultural factors influencing self-management of diabetes mellitus type 2 among women: a descriptive qualitative study from Islamabad, Pakistan.

Introduction: Health-seeking behaviours among individuals with diabetes are complex and shaped by multiple factors, including financial constraints, cultural beliefs, attitudes towards the disease, access to healthcare and social support. This research explores the health-seeking behaviours of women with type 2 diabetes mellitus and the sociocultural factors influencing self-management of diabetes using the Social Ecological Model as a framework. The study aims to gain insight into improving the health-seeking behaviours of women with type 2 diabetes mellitus. Methods: This study employs an in-depth descriptive qualitative approach which provides deep insights into the experiences and perspectives of diabetic women. Data collection involved using in-depth semistructured interviews from 14 type 2 diabetic women attending a public sector tertiary care hospital in Islamabad. Thematic analysis was used to identify key themes and insights from the data. Results: The findings revealed that multilevel factors such as individual, interpersonal, organisational, community and policy level factors influence health-seeking behaviours and self-management practices among diabetic women. There is non-adherence to self-management practices due to low motivation, financial constraints and time constraints. Medical treatment is thought to be crucial in controlling diabetes rather than bringing changes in behaviour. Conclusions: The findings of this study will help in designing gender-sensitive and culturally appropriate interventions. Collaboration between healthcare providers and policymakers is required to design culturally sensitive interventions in order to educate and empower women to follow self-management practices.