*3.1.2.1 Knowledge regarding diabetes care*

Diabetes knowledge is one of the key elements motivating individuals to follow a healthy lifestyle [26]. Nutrition and exercise are essential in diabetes outcomes. Poor knowledge in this regard contributes fundamentally to increasing the prevalence of poor control of diabetes [26], leading to complications and a high mortality rate. Not empowering patients and their family members with knowledge may increase diabetes prevalence among family members who are already at risk due to family history. Poor nutrition and exercise knowledge also normalize poor lifestyle choices, which contribute to obesity. A lack of knowledge about diabetes management often leads to non-compliance to treatment [27].

According to Ajzen et al. [28], having adequate knowledge does not guarantee the adoption of healthy behavior. The combination of knowledge and motivation to change behavior is what yields positive behavioral change [29]. Knowledge enables patients to assess diabetes risk, seek proper treatment and care, and inspires them to lead a healthy lifestyle to manage their disease. Patients with adequate diabetes knowledge tend to take appropriate measures to control the disease [30], by honoring their medical appointments. Adequate diabetes knowledge among patients minimizes comorbidities, which improves their quality of life. Having adequate knowledge about self-care practices leads to better diabetes control for a prolonged period and adherence to self-management practices [31]. Nonetheless, international knowledge and awareness of diabetes stay low [32]. A cross-sectional South African study conducted in the Vhembe district of Limpopo Province has reported poor diabetes knowledge among patients [33]. A mixed method study on diabetes knowledge conducted in Senwabarwana in Limpopo province also reported poor knowledge [34]. It is therefore important to conduct a baseline analysis regarding diabetes knowledge involving a target population.
