Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a chronic progressive metabolic disorder characterized by hyperglycemia mainly due to
absolute (Type 1 DM) or relative (Type 2 DM) deficiency of insulin hormone. World Health Organization estimates
that more than 346 million people worldwide have DM. This number is likely to more than double by 2030 without
any intervention. The needs of diabetic patients are not only limited to adequate glycemic control but also
correspond with preventing complications; disability limitation and rehabilitation. There are seven essential self-care
behaviors in people with diabetes which predict good outcomes namely healthy eating, being physically active,
monitoring of blood sugar, compliant with medications, good problem-solving skills, healthy coping skills and
risk-reduction behaviors. All these seven behaviors have been found to be positively correlated with good glycemic
control, reduction of complications and improvement in quality of life. Individuals with diabetes have been shown
to make a dramatic impact on the progression and development of their disease by participating in their own care.
Despite this fact, compliance or adherence to these activities has been found to be low, especially when looking at
long-term changes. Though multiple demographic, socio-economic and social support factors can be considered as
positive contributors in facilitating self-care activities in diabetic patients, role of clinicians in promoting self-care is
vital and has to be emphasized. Realizing the multi-faceted nature of the problem, a systematic, multi-pronged and
an integrated approach is required for promoting self-care practices among diabetic patients to avert any
long-term complications.