FACTORS ASSOCIATED WITH FATTY LIVER DISEASE AND SELF-MANAGEMENT STRATEGIES AMONG DIAGNOSED PATIENTS IN SELECTED TEACHING HOSPITALS IN OGUN STATE, NIGERIA

Abstract

This study assessed the factors associated with Fatty Liver Disease and self-management strategies among diagnosed patients in selected teaching hospitals in Ogun State, Nigeria. A cross sectional descriptive design was utilized for the study using a sample of 244 diagnosed patients. A structured and validated questionnaire was used at both BUTH and OOUTH respectively. Data was analyzed using descriptive, and Chi-square statistics at 5% level of significance. The findings showed that most respondents were between 50–60 years (37.3%), female (54.5%), and had secondary school education (33.6%). About 35.2% had been diagnosed within six months and 47.5% discovered the condition during routine check-ups. Additionally, the chi-square value obtained for level of education is (x2 = 71.803, p = .000 < .05); religion (x2 = 39.999, p = .000 < .05); ethnicity (x2 = 26.345, p = .000 < .05); average monthly Income (x2 = 30.009, p = .000 < .05); duration of diagnosis (x2 = 21.087, p = .017 < .05); and family member been diagnosed (x2 = 18.876, p = .000 < .05) were significant at less than 0.05. Also, there is a significant relationship between perceived severity of fatty liver disease and self-management strategies among diagnosed patients (x2 = 53.269, p = .000 < .05). The study concluded that patient education and awareness are crucial for successful self-management. Additionally, the community, family, and medical professionals' support increases treatment plan acceptance and adherence, which inevitably raises overall quality of life.