How do patients with uncontrolled diabetes in the Brussels-Capital Region seek and use information sources for their diet?

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to obtain qualitative data to understand how type 2 diabetic patients with unregulated blood glucose levels (HbA1c >140 mg/dL) seek and use information sources for their diet. METHODS: A descriptive, explorative study design was used with focus group interviews in the Brussels-Capital Region. Each interview was recorded, transcribed literally, and analysed thematically using a grounded theory approach. RESULTS: GPs were the most important information source in this study. GPs and other professionals were considered to be reliable sources of information by the patients. All patients received information passively at diagnosis. Patients that actively sought information differed in their search behaviour and reported they were not sufficiently informed. Some information sources remained unknown to the diabetic patients in this study. CONCLUSION: Diabetic patients of the Brussels-Capital Region are not well informed about their diet. The main problem is how patients perceived the accessibility of information. Practice implications Public health strategies are required to promote well-informed, proactive patients supported by healthcare teams.