Parental Perspectives on Managing Type 1 Diabetes in India: A Study of Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices

Abstract Background: Type 1 diabetes (T1D) is a chronic autoimmune disease characterized by insulin deficiency, which results in raised blood sugar levels. T1D requires lifelong management, and in this, parent plays a crucial role in their child’s care. Improving outcomes for children with T1D requires evaluating parents’ knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAPs). The purpose of this study was to evaluate the KAP of Indian parents of children with T1D. Materials and Methods: A total of 214 parents of children under 25 years of age with T1D participated in a cross-sectional descriptive-analytical study. Demographic data and T1D management-related KAPs were evaluated using a structured questionnaire. Results: Parents’ knowledge varied widely, with notable gaps in their understanding of long-term complications, insulin administration, and symptom recognition. A sizable percentage of parents expressed feeling overburdened and worried about their child’s long-term health, even though many felt secure and supported. Although parents actively manage their child’s illness, there is still room to enhance their participation in educational initiatives and promote their children’s increased participation in decision-making. Conclusion: In India, parents of children with T1D show initiative in managing their condition, but there is room for improvement in terms of knowledge, emotional support, and family-centered care to improve the outcomes for children with the disease.