Study on the Impact of Educational Awareness About Association of Soft Drink Consumption and Diabetes Mellitus

Background The increasing prevalence of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus among adolescents and young adults (12–25 years) is concerning, with research pointing to a strong link between Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) and frequent soft drink consumption.Purpose To evaluate whether a simple educational awareness program could make a measurable difference in how young people understand and respond to this risk.Methods A pre-validated questionnaire on knowledge, attitude, and behavior (KAP) around soft drink consumption and its connection to T2DM was shared online with participants from Indonesia and India. Infographics highlighting health impacts of soft drinks were shared over two months, and a post-awareness survey was conducted.Results Knowledge scores improved significantly in both Indonesia (2.06 ± 1.15 to 4.02 ± 0.96) and India (2.61 ± 1.47 to 3.99 ± 1.22) (p < .001). Behavioral improvement was significant among Indian participants, whereas attitude changes were minimal in both groups.Discussion The intervention effectively improved knowledge; however, increased awareness did not consistently translate into attitudinal or behavioral change.Translation to Health Education Practice Educational interventions can improve awareness of dietary risk factors for T2DM. Sustained, behavior-focused strategies may be required to promote long-term healthy beverage choices among adolescents and young adults.