METHODS: Data from the 2011-1014 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS), a random-digit-dialed telephone survey of the civilian, noninstitutionalized adult population aged 18 years, were analyzed for 78,698 individuals who self-reported diabetes. The outcome variable was diabetes management; good diabetes management was defined as monitoring blood glucose and foot sores daily as per the American Diabetes Association’s recommendation, and engaging in regular physical activity. Independent variables included sociodemographic and healthcare access factors. Weighted, multivariate logistic regression models were constructed to examine the association between independent variables and diabetes management.

RESULTS: Approximately 28% of the respondents engaged in good diabetes management. Weighted multivariable logistic regression revealed that compared to non-Hispanic Whites, non-Hispanic Blacks were more likely to engage in good diabetes management (aOR = 1.35; 95% CI: 1.24 – 1.47) as were respondents who had prior diabetes management education (aOR = 1.57; 95% CI: 1.48 – 1.67). Respondents who had a high school diploma (aOR = 0.90; 95% CI: 0.83 – 0.97) and did not graduate from high school (aOR = 0.87; 95% CI: 0.79 – 0.98) were less likely to engage in good diabetes management compare to those that had a college degree or higher. Respondents who were never married (aOR = 0.88; 95% CI: 0.80 – 0.98); who did not have a regular provider (aOR = 0.70; 95% CI: 0.60 – 0.81); and who self-reported poor/fair health (aOR = 0.77; 95% CI: 0.71 – 0.84) were less likely to engage in good diabetes management.

CONCLUSIONS: Race, marital status, education, healthcare provider, and health status are associated with diabetes management. Increasing public health interventions aimed at educating diabetics and removing barriers to good diabetes management might provide a means for improving health outcomes.