Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices (KAP) Regarding Diabetes-Related Hearing Loss Among Providers and Patients: A Scoping Review

Background: Hearing loss remains significantly underrecognised as a diabetes complication, despite diabetic individuals experiencing double the risk of sensorineural hearing impairment. This review synthesised healthcare provider and patient knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) concerning diabetes-related hearing loss. Methods: Using Arksey and O’Malley’s framework and PRISMA-ScR guidelines, systematic searches were conducted across five databases (PubMed/MEDLINE, Embase, Scopus, Web of Science, Cochrane Library) through August 2025. Grey literature and reference screening supplemented database searches. Eligible studies examined KAP among healthcare professionals and diabetic patients. Results: Five studies from four countries reported KAP findings were identified from 2029 records, encompassing 2813 healthcare providers. Only one study included KAP data from patients. Knowledge deficits were pronounced: American provider awareness ranged 25.6–44.5%, contrasting sharply with >94% awareness of other complications. Only 24.3% of Chinese providers demonstrated complete understanding, while 59.7% of South African practitioners remained unaware of auditory complications. Patient knowledge was similarly limited (21% recognition). Attitudes showed moderate engagement, with 68–75% of Chinese practitioners accepting management responsibilities. Barriers included unfamiliar guidelines, competing priorities, and restricted audiological access. Practices were suboptimal: 16.9% conducted routine screening, referrals remained reactive, and 64.9% never discussed hearing risks. Training opportunities were minimal. Conclusions: Substantial KAP deficits exist regarding diabetes-related hearing loss. Recognition disparities compared to established complications represent lost opportunities for early intervention. Urgent needs include standardised assessment instruments, large-scale intervention studies, and comprehensive educational programs to integrate hearing health into standard diabetes management protocols.