Abstract

Background: Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a metabolic disorder in which inadequacy of insulin compromises the oxidization of glucose. Currently, DM affects more than 500 million people globally, about 9 million of whom live with Type 1 DM. DM causes several microvascular complications, one of which is diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), a condition characterized by relative or complete insulin deficiency, making cells incapable of absorbing insulin. While there has been adequate research focusing on DM and its prevalence, little literature has focused on general knowledge and attitudes toward DKA, especially among DM patients in Saudi Arabia.
Methods: This study adopted a cross-sectional research design to assess the knowledge and attitudes toward diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) among diabetic patients in Saudi Arabia. The study was conducted between August 2024 and November 2024. It targeted adult diabetic patients, both male and female, in Saudi Arabia who had been diagnosed with diabetes (Type 1 or Type 2). A non -probability convenience sampling method was employed, resulting in a sample of 200 participants. Data were collected using an online survey (Google Forms) distributed via social media platforms, diabetes support groups, and healthcare institutions. The collected data were coded and analyzed using IBM SPSS version 27.
Results: Results revealed that over half (55.8%) had heard of DKA, yet significant knowledge gaps remain, as 34% were unaware of its causes. Poor blood glucose control (50%) and missed insulin doses (28.8%) were identified as primary causes. While 68.6% believed DKA is preventable, only 40.4% knew the recommended frequency for blood sugar monitoring. Attitudes were generally positive, with 90.4% expressing interest in further education. Male participants and those receiving diabetes education demonstrated significantly higher knowledge levels (p = 0.040, p = 0.001, respectively).
Conclusion: The study noted a statistically significant relationship between diabetes education and knowledge levels among Saudi diabetic patients, with educated persons having greater knowledge levels. Gender may also play a great role, implying that improving female diabetes education could help with diabetes management.

Key words: Awareness, attitude, Diabetic Ketoacidosis (DKA), Diabetes, Saudi Arabia.