Abstract

Objective: This study aimed to determine the association between parental awareness of diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) symptoms and the reported symptoms in parents of diabetic and non-diabetic children in different parts of Saudi Arabia.
Methods: A cross-sectional study was undertaken among 499 parents and legal guardians of young children (0-18 years) of the five major regions of Saudi Arabia.
Results: A total of 499 parents participated. Overall, 79.8% demonstrated poor awareness of DKA symptoms. Parents of diabetic children showed significantly better knowledge than those of non-diabetic children (p < 0.001), with firsthand experience and healthcare education being key predictors. Commonly recognized symptoms included frequent urination and excessive thirst, while awareness of DKA severity and complications remained limited. Younger age and having a child with type 1 diabetes were associated with higher awareness. Most parents expressed a strong interest in further DKA education.
Conclusion: The results demonstrated limited knowledge of DKA symptoms among the parents of both diabetic and non-diabetic children in Saudi Arabia. Families with diabetic children had stronger knowledge, emphasizing the influence of firsthand experience and health education. Educational programs are strongly needed nationwide to help improve parental awareness of DKA, aimed specifically at non-diabetic populations and those in under-identified areas.

Key words: Diabetic ketoacidosis, parental awareness, children, type 1 diabetes mellitus, Saudi Arabia