Adolescents with Diabetes, exploring Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice: A Cross-Sectional Analytical Study

Abstract

Background: Diabetes mellitus (DM) constitutes an escalating global health concern, with a discernible impact on new generations, specifically adolescents. This research is uniquely positioned to address a substantial research gap by systematically evaluating the knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) pertinent to DM in adolescent patients. Methods: An analytical cross-sectional study was executed. Two well-trained research assistants gathered corresponding data from a cohort of 417 diabetic adolescents (aged 12–19 years; 303 males and 114 females) at the National Centre for Diabetes Endocrinology and Genetics in Amman, Jordan. The assessment of KAP was conducted through face-to-face interviews utilizing a validated questionnaire. Multinomial logistic regression and logistic regression models were used to explore the associations between patients’ variables, KAP and other covariates. Results: The participants had a mean age of 15.84 ± 1.84. The majority exhibited moderate to high levels of knowledge but poor attitudes and practices. Notably, males showed significantly lower levels of knowledge compared to females (Adjusted Odds Ratio [OR] = 0.501, 95% Confidence Interval [CI]: 0.260-0.968). Non-smokers adolescents! demonstrated higher knowledge levels than smokers (Adjusted OR = 1.986, 95% CI: 1.030-3.831). Supplement users showed superior knowledge only in unadjusted models. Positive attitudes were observed in only 24% of participants. Obtaining DM information from physicians was significantly associated with more positive attitudes (Adjusted OR = 2.162, 95% CI: 1.216-3.844). The majority (71%) displayed poor practices, and this was significantly associated with higher family income (Adjusted OR = 0.392, 95% CI: 0.186-0.824). Conclusion: Despite knowledge levels, there’s a concerning trend of poor attitudes and practices. Addressing gender disparities, smoking, physical activity, and socioeconomic factors remains crucial for effective overall DM management. The findings emphasize the urgent need for targeted educational programs to further enhance knowledge and cultivate more positive attitudes. Collaborating with physicians and diabetic associations is vital for accurate information and improving attitudes and practices in diabetes.