Improving Diabetes Self-Help in Natural Disasters: Qualitative Parameters and Recommendations

Background: When natural disasters occur, people with diabetes face more physical and mental challenges than healthy individuals. Therefore, innovative programs and policies are crucial for providing ongoing education to patients on how to better manage their condition. Objectives: The present study aimed to identify the components of empowerment literacy for diabetic patients during disasters. Methods: The present research employed a qualitative content analysis approach using a conventional deductive method. Purposive sampling was conducted, and data were collected through semi-structured interviews. The panel consisted of 24 participants, including native Iranian endocrinologists, nurses, emergency medical center managers, and experts in the field of medical librarianship and information. These participants had direct experience in relief efforts during critical situations such as natural disasters. The interviews were recorded and transcribed into written format. Data analysis was performed using thematic analysis with the assistance of MaxQDA software. Results: The content analysis resulted in identification of 10 main categories, 61 sub-categories, and five themes, including Disaster risk perception literacy, Medication literacy, Resilience literacy, Nutrition literacy, and Self-help literacy. Conclusion: The obtained findings have informed the creation of targeted health literacy education materials for policymakers in disaster scenarios specifically designed for individuals with diabetes. Diabetic individuals, particularly those residing in disaster-prone areas, should possess knowledge of emergency and disaster policies to enhance their health literacy. They should actively manage their condition while keeping abreast of policymakers' guidelines.