Saman Agad HASHIM, Farazdaq Fakhir GATAE, Haider Ayad ALIDRISI
Gulhane Medical Journal - 2026;68(3):167-176
Aims: The prevalence of type 2 diabetes (T2D) has increased significantly in Iraq, making it critical to understand knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) to improve diabetes management and health outcomes. This study explores the impact of KAP and other factors on glycemic control among T2D patients in Southern Iraq. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among patients with T2D, aged 18-64 years, excluding those with type 1 diabetes, gestational diabetes, or severe conditions such as cancer or kidney failure. Their KAP was assessed using a validated and reliable questionnaire. Results: A total of 390 patients (163 males and 227 females), with a mean age of 48.5+/-13.0 years, were included in the study. The findings revealed moderate levels of knowledge (63.4%) and practices (58.2%), while attitudes towards diabetes management were notably negative (40.7%). Key predictors of glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) included body mass index, diabetes knowledge, gender, marital status, family history, duration of diabetes, blood pressure, employment status, education level, and comorbidities, which collectively explained 37% of the variance in HbA1c levels [adjusted R2=0.37, F (11, 389)=17.645, p<0.001]. Conclusions: This study found that T2D patients in Southern Iraq have moderate knowledge and practices, but poor attitudes toward diabetes management. Sociodemographic and clinical factors significantly affect glycemic control, indicating a need for targeted education and improved diabetes care programs to enhance patient outcomes.
