Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices Related to Diabetes Prevention and Control Among Adults at Selected Communities in Somanya in the Eastern Region of Ghana

Abstract

Background: Diabetes mellitus has emerged as a pressing public health challenge, particularly in low- and middle-income countries undergoing rapid urbanisation and lifestyle transitions. In Ghana, the increasing burden of diabetes is worsened by limited public awareness, poor preventive behaviours, and inadequate health education, especially in peri-urban settings like Somanya in the Eastern Region. Aim: This study sought to assess the knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) related to diabetes prevention and control among adults at selected communities in Somanya. Methodology: The study adopted a quantitative, cross-sectional design. A structured, interviewer-administered questionnaire was used to collect data from a sample of 422 adult residents between 9th February and 9th March, 2026. The questionnaire captured socio-demographic details, diabetes-related knowledge, attitudes, and current preventive practices. The tool was pretested for clarity and cultural relevance, and trained data collectors fluent in local dialects facilitated its administration. Descriptive statistics and multivariate logistic regression were used to analyse the data and identify factors associated with good preventive practices. Results: The study included 402 respondents. Overall, 51.7% of participants demonstrated good knowledge of diabetes, with high awareness of key risk factors such as excessive sugar intake (85.82%), obesity (83.08%), and physical inactivity (80.05%). However, misconceptions were observed, with 32.9% believing that diabetes is curable. A majority of respondents (60.7%) exhibited negative attitudes towards diabetes management, including misconceptions about treatment, such as the belief that insulin is harmful (75.87%) andthat long-term use of medication causes organ damage. Regarding practices, 59.7% of respondents demonstrated good preventive practices, with high engagement in physical activity (75.12%) and avoidance of sugary foods (71.14%). However, routine screening was low, with only 34.83% reporting regular blood glucose checks. Multivariable logistic regression analysis showed that good knowledge (AOR = 2.61, 95% CI: 1.56–4.36, p < 0.001) and positive attitudes (AOR = 1.88, 95% CI: 1.08–3.28, p = 0.027) were significant predictors of good practice. Education level, residence, and income were also significantly associated with diabetes-related practices. Conclusion: Although knowledge of diabetes was relatively good, important misconceptions and negative attitudes toward treatment persist. Preventive practices were generally favourable; however, routine blood glucose screening remained low. Improving both awareness and attitudes is essential to enhance effective diabetes prevention and management.