Assessing diabetes awareness and health behaviors among adults in Jordan: a national cross-sectional study

Background Diabetes mellitus is a major public health challenge in Jordan. This study aimed to assess diabetes awareness and health behaviors among Jordanian adults and identify key sociodemographic predictors of knowledge.Research design and methods A national cross-sectional study was conducted, surveying 1,994 adults via online and in-person interviews. A validated questionnaire assessed diabetes knowledge and health behaviors. Data were analyzed using multivariate regression to identify predictors of knowledge.Results General diabetes awareness was high (98%), but specific knowledge gaps were identified. Only 52.3% understood glucose tolerance testing, and 38% recognized that diabetes control improves by avoiding smoking. Higher education (Bachelor’s: β = 0.39, p = 0.004; Master’s: β = 0.68, p < 0.001) and healthcare employment (β = 1.34, p < 0.001) strongly predicted better knowledge. Healthier behaviors like regular exercise (β = 0.24, p = 0.004) and balanced diets (β = 0.19, p = 0.001) correlated with higher scores, while smokers scored lower (β = −0.29, p = 0.002).Conclusion Despite high general awareness, critical gaps persist in diagnostics and lifestyle-related knowledge. Targeted interventions addressing smoking cessation, testing protocols, and culturally tailored education are needed to enhance diabetes management in Jordan.