Pemahaman Penderita Diabetes Melitus terhadap Pewarisan Genetik dan Risiko Keturunan untuk Pengembangan Materi Pendidikan Genetika

Abstract

Diabetes mellitus is a chronic metabolic disease that is prevalent in Indonesia and influenced by a combination of genetic and lifestyle factors. The increasing number of diabetes cases indicates a lack of public understanding regarding genetic inheritance and the risk of transmission to offspring. The research gap lies in the limited studies exploring patients’ perceptions of genetic factors in the context of health education. This study aims to describe the understanding of diabetes mellitus patients regarding genetic inheritance and hereditary risk as a foundation for developing genetics education materials. This research employed a qualitative approach with a descriptive method. Primary data were obtained through in-depth interviews with a type 2 diabetes patient who has a family history of the same disease, while secondary data were gathered from relevant scientific literature. Data were analyzed using thematic analysis through transcription, interpretation, and source triangulation to ensure validity. The findings reveal that the respondent acknowledges a strong link between heredity and diabetes risk but also realizes that a healthy lifestyle can control the condition. The study highlights the importance of genetics education based on social and public health contexts to enhance awareness of early detection and prevention of hereditary diseases. Therefore, the combination of genetic understanding and healthy lifestyle practices serves as the key to reducing the risk of diabetes mellitus in society.