Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice Toward Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus in the Lebanese Population

Background Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a major cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. This study aimed to determine the levels of knowledge, attitude, and practice regarding T2DM among Lebanese patients with T2DM compared to the general population. Methodology This was a cross-sectional, online-based questionnaire study conducted in Lebanon among patients with T2DM and the general population between July and September 2021. Data collection encompassed sociodemographic characteristics, habits, and personal/family history of T2DM and assessed the levels of knowledge (44 items), attitude (29 items), and practice (16 items) concerning T2DM. Results A total of 1,127 participants were included, and 445 participants had clinically diagnosed T2DM. Only 9% of the participants (103 out of 1,127 participants) showed adequate knowledge level regarding T2DM. Higher scores were noted among young (p = 0.048) and employed (p = 0.025) participants, who also had a higher educational level (p = 0.005) and were aware of their own HbA1c level (p = 0.005). Poor attitude was reported in approximately half of T2DM patients (231 out of 445 participants). A better attitude was noticed in participants with a higher T2DM-related knowledge level (p = 0.016) or a diabetic family member (p = 0.03). Concerning practice, 13.3% of responses were deemed adequate (59 out of 445 participants). Higher levels of T2DM-related knowledge (p = 0.001) and education (p = 0.032) were positively correlated with better practice, in contrast to smoking (p < 0.001) and obesity (p = 0.005). Conclusions We found a significant knowledge gap and poor attitude and practice regarding diabetes among Lebanese patients with T2DM, emphasizing the need for targeted awareness campaigns.