Diabetes mellitus (DM) is defined as a metabolic disease of multiple etiology characterized by a state of chronic hyperglycemia that, if not properly controlled, evolves with serious complications (ARAÚJO, 2013-2014). It results from defects in insulin secretion, the inability of insulin to exert its effects or both factors (ANGELO et al, 2010). Diabetes mellitus is on the rise both due to population growth and ageing, and the increased prevalence of obesity and sedentary lifestyle (BONA et al, 2010). In Brazil, it is estimated that the prevalence of DM in the Brazilian population reaches 7.6% in the age group between 30 and 69 years. Approximately half of the patients are unaware of the diagnosis and 25% of the patients who know they have the disease do not undergo any type of treatment (ROCHA et al., 2002).