Assessing Awareness of Diabetes Mellitus in High School Students of Karachi : A Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

Objective:This study was aimed to assess the awareness regarding Diabetes Mellitus in High School Students of
Karachi and its effects on their peers.
Materials and Methods: A team of six researchers conducted a cross-sectional study among 268 A-level students in Karachi, Pakistan, aiming to assess their awareness of diabetes mellitus (DM) and its impacts. The study focused on students aged 16-19, using a questionnaire to gather data on DM knowledge and demographics. Exclusion criteria included ages outside the specified range and students not enrolled in A-levels.
Results: Among 268 A-level students in Karachi, the study revealed that while almost all were aware of diabetes, only about half were educated about it. Most received information from family and sources like books or teachers. Knowledge about gestational diabetes and insulin's role was limited. However, a good portion recognized the link between exercise and diabetes. Around half knew about diabetes prevention, while nearly half believed in various treatments, including diet, medication, exercise, and surgery.
Conclusion: This research highlights that formal education alone does not guarantee adequate knowledge and awareness of prevalent diseases like Diabetes Mellitus (DM). Even individuals from a high socioeconomic status (SES) with easy access to information may lack awareness of basic public health issues.