DEVELOPMENT OF A DIABETES MELLITUS PREVENTION MODEL AMONG PRE-DIABETIC RISK GROUPS THROUGH NETWORK PARTICIPATION IN NGAO DISTRICT, LAMPANG PROVINCE

Abstract

This research employed a Research and Development design with three objectives: (1) to investigate the situation and factors associated with diabetes mellitus prevention among at-risk populations; (2) to develop a diabetes mellitus prevention model through community network participation; and (3) to evaluate the effectiveness of the developed model. The study was conducted in Ngao District, Lampang Province, Thailand. A total of 120 participants at risk of diabetes were recruited and assigned into an experimental group (n = 60) and a control group (n = 60) using a multistage sampling technique. The research instruments included a demographic questionnaire, a health literacy assessment based on the 3E2S framework (diet, exercise, emotional management, smoking cessation, and alcohol avoidance), a 12-week diabetes mellitus prevention program, and focus group discussion guidelines. All instruments were validated by experts for content validity and demonstrated acceptable reliability. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and inferential statistics, including Chi-square test, independent t-test, and paired t-test.

The study found that the diabetes prevention model based on the participation of network partners in Ngao District was implemented through four strategies. The model emphasized providing knowledge and assessing the health status of at-risk groups in order to promote behavioral change according to the 3Aor.2Sor principles. It integrated collaboration from all sectors in the area and was driven through the use of health record booklets and the “Smart Village Health Volunteer: Let’s Count Carbs” application to continuously monitor, support, and evaluate health outcomes. After the intervention, the experimental group had a higher mean health literacy score than before the intervention (Mean = 106.90, S.D. = 16.54, and 92.27, S.D. = 17.96, respectively), and significantly higher than the control group (t = 4.684, p < 0.001). It is recommended that this model be applied at the community level, with emphasis on the participation of network partners and continuous behavioral monitoring, in order to promote sustainable prevention of diabetes and other non-communicable diseases.