Abstract
OBJECTIVES: This study investigates the knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) related to diabetes mellitus (DM) among outpatients in Herat, aiming to identify key gaps and inform educational and policy interventions. METHODS: An outpatient‐based cross‐sectional study, using a structured‐, validated‐, and interviewer‐administered questionnaire, was conducted among 421 adult outpatients at Herat Regional and Jami Hospitals. Descriptive statistics, chi‐square tests, and logistic regression were performed in SPSS 27 to explore associations between KAP levels and sociodemographic factors. RESULTS: Overall, 54.4% had good knowledge, 51.3% positive attitudes, and 52.5% good practices. Knowledge correlated with education, diabetes education, and family history (p < 0.001). Positive attitudes were more common in singles, urban residents, and media users (p < 0.05). Good practices were higher in females, housewives, and those working fewer hours (p < 0.05). In multivariable analysis, knowledge was associated with age 25–34 (AOR 3.94, p = 0.044), rural residence (AOR 0.20, p = 0.032), university education (AOR 0.19, p = 0.028), normal BMI (AOR 0.11, p = 0.019), and family history of Type 2 diabetes (AOR 0.25, p = 0.007). Positive attitudes were linked to working 2–9 h (AOR 3.41, p = 0.012), whereas medium income decreased odds (AOR 0.23, p = 0.013). Good practices were associated with female sex (AOR 0.13, p = 0.010), being married (AOR 0.20, p = 0.047), working 2–9 h (AOR 3.50, p = 0.033), literacy without schooling (AOR 12.31, p = 0.012), and prior diabetes education (AOR 8.90, p < 0.001). High income showed a negative association (AOR 0.21, p = 0.040). CONCLUSION: Although moderate KAP levels were observed, critical gaps remain, particularly in lifestyle practices and routine monitoring. Comprehensive public health strategies including structured education, media outreach, and culturally tailored interventions are vital to improve diabetes awareness and management in Afghanistan.