Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a chronic metabolic disorder that has become a major global health concern, with its prevalence reaching pandemic proportions. Effective dietary management plays a crucial role in controlling blood glucose levels and preventing complications associated with the disease. However, adequate dietary knowledge (DK) among individuals with T2DM is essential to ensure adherence to appropriate dietary practices. This study aimed to assess the level of dietary knowledge among adults diagnosed with T2DM who receive medical care at a primary healthcare center in a rural region of Irbid, Jordan. A total of 500 adults were recruited using a convenience sampling method. A validated DK questionnaire consisting of 21 multiple-choice questions was used to evaluate participants’ knowledge of macronutrients, specifically carbohydrates, lipids, and proteins, with only one correct answer per question. The findings revealed that participants demonstrated a moderate level of dietary knowledge, with an overall DK score of 54.25% regarding general dietary recommendations for diabetes management. Specifically, knowledge levels for macronutrient categories were 59% for carbohydrates, 55% for lipids, and 63% for proteins. These results suggest that while participants had a fair understanding of dietary guidelines, there remains room for improvement. In conclusion, the study highlights that DK among adults with T2DM receiving care at a rural primary healthcare center in Irbid, Jordan, is moderate. This underscores the necessity of implementing targeted awareness campaigns, educational programs, and routine training sessions led by healthcare providers to enhance dietary knowledge and promote better diabetes self-management.

Index Terms- dietary knowledge, dietary practice, rural region, type 2 diabetes