DIABETES MELLITUS: DIFFICULTIES OF ACCESS AND PATIENT ADHESION TO THE FAMILY HEALTH PROGRAM

Abstract

Objective: This study was carried out with the objective of tracing and knowing the profile of patients having diabetes mellitus who live in the coverage area of the Family Health Program III in the municipality of Condado – PB. Material and Methods: This is a quantitative and qualitative research, whose data collection occurred by structured interview, followed by oral clinic examinations accomplished at home visits. During this study, blood pressure of the interviewers was verified, as well as their glycemic levels. Results: The main results were: 56% showed alteration in blood pressure and 76% had their glycemic levels above standard values. It was verified that 56% of patients was supported by public service, and among elderly tooth pain (44%) was the chief-complaint; 73% of the patients did not feel they needed any dental care, which must be associated to the high edentulous level (59%), as well as to the feelings of fear (38%), anxiety and tension (14%), rising before and during dental treatment. Among the oral manifestations found in these patients, are: presence of decay lesions (6%), root remains (9%) and periodontal diseases (20%), as well as presence of lesions in lip commissure, lower lip and nose. Conclusion: The pursuit for oral health care by elderly diabetic people occurred, mainly, in public services, and the pain was the main reason for this pursuit in the last appointments. Most of the interviewed people (59%) were toothless. Delay in looking for dental services is due to several factors such as physical incapacity of some of the interviewed; fear and anxiety before and during the treatment, and also geographical barriers. The characterization of the users’ profile and the knowledge about their needs have contributed to structure a service which encourage the adhesion to treatment and maintenance of oral health. DESCRIPTORS: Diabetes Mellitus. Oral Health. Public Health.