ABSTRACT
The changing lifestyles and rising obesity rates among young people have made diabetes a significant threat, particularly for adolescents with diabetes mellitus risk factors. This study aimed to assess the relationship between knowledge and attitude and their influence on preventive behaviour in adolescents at risk of diabetes mellitus. A quantitative descriptive cross-sectional design was employed using convenience sampling, with 58 respondents aged 10–18 years who met the inclusion criteria of having at least one diabetes mellitus risk factor. Data on knowledge, attitude, and preventive behaviour were collected using self-administered questionnaires. Descriptive statistics and Spearman rank correlation were used for analysis. The results revealed a significant positive relationship between knowledge and preventive behaviour (p = 0.007, r = 0.348) and between attitude and preventive behaviour (p = 0.000, r = 0.552). These findings indicate that higher levels of knowledge and positive attitudes are associated with better preventive behaviours. It is recommended that health education programmes targeting adolescents utilise age-appropriate strategies and involve collaboration with schools and health units to enhance awareness and prevention of diabetes mellitus.
