HEALTH EDUCATION FOR A GROUP OF PEOPLE WITH DIABETES ANDHYPERTENSION: EXPERIENCE REPORT

Abstract

Introduction: The experience report of an educational group for people with diabetes and hypertension, held within the primary care network, is the guiding theme of this description, from the perspective of preventing complications, managing chronic diseases, and promoting well-being. This educational initiative was the subject of the intervention project of the Specialization Course in Care for People with Chronic Non-Communicable Diseases, offered by the Federal University of Santa Catarina, held in 2023, to strengthen the public health policies of the Unified Health System. Objectives: To report the experience of the health education group for people with hypertension and diabetes, with the aim of promoting spaces for reflection in the region. Methodology: The intervention plan was based on health education activities in the Campinas/Kobrasol community in the municipality of São José, Santa Catarina. At the time, primary care teams received training on the health care plan for hypertensive and diabetic patients to achieve the Previne Brasil program's indicator targets. This training aimed to transfer resources to the municipal administration and emphasize ongoing care for patients.
Health education meetings took place on Friday afternoons. Participants were recruited through consultations and community health workers. The active methodology used was the conversation circle, fostering reflective dialogue on healthy living and quality of life, focusing on the themes of healthy eating, physical activity, and treatment adherence. The target audience was male and female, ages 18 and older.
The location was community spaces and a meeting room at the primary care unit in the Campinas neighborhood, on an on-demand basis. The primary care team, nutritionist, and physical education teacher were responsible for leading the meetings. Blood pressure was measured and glycated hemoglobin levels were requested. Results and Discussion: Organizing educational action groups always presents challenges, especially in the post-pandemic period, as people reintegrated into collective activities. Each meeting's topics were discussed, bringing important elements that point to early screening and reduced hospital admissions. Health education in the debate on hypertension and diabetes converges with the actions that constitute the 2030 Agenda and the United Nations (UN) Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The interconnected goal is SDG 3: Good Health and Well-Being, which aims to ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all at all ages globally. Target 3.4 is to reduce premature mortality from non-communicable diseases. Final Considerations: In this context, the strategy of educational groups offered to the community is crucial to strengthening the bond between healthcare professionals and patients, as it empowers individuals to make healthier choices and adhere to treatments, aiming for a better life. 

Keywords: Hypertension, Diabetes, Health Education.