Abstract
Background: Maturity-onset diabetes of the young (MODY) is a type of monogenic diabetes first described as a mild and asymptomatic form of diabetes mellitus that was observed in non-obese children, and young adults. With the development of genetic technology, many genes linked to MODY have been sequenced and described. MODY is a kind of diabetes inherited and a mutation in one of eleven genes causes it. MODY could be the cause of up to 5% of all diabetes cases. MODY patients, like other diabetics, have difficulty controlling their blood sugar levels. Methods: This study is a cross-sectional study among primary care physicians (PCPs) in the Najran region. The questionnaire was created following a series of conversations between a panel of experts, which included subject specialists, researchers, and language experts. Pilot study with 15 respondents was also conducted to observe the clarity of the content of the questionnaire and its validity. The questionnaire’s Cronbach alpha was computed. It was created in English and disseminated through Google forms link and in a printed form as well. The questionnaire has two main sections, one for knowledge and the other for practice with MODY. Results: 12% completely responded to questions regarding definition of MODY, 55.5% have knowledge regarding mode of inheritance of MODY, 9% were aware about the type of the MODY, 60% were aware about typical symptoms of MODY, Diagnostic tools of MODY (45%), Possible presentations of MODY (6%), Therapeutic modalities of MODY (39%), Complications of MODY (20%), Differences between MODY and T1DM and T2DM (6.8%), while overall knowledge score was 53.8%. Conclusion: This study emphasized the importance of PCPs among individuals participating in intensive teaching programs in order to promote early detection of MODY and beginning of the proper treatment for the disease. Keywords: Knowledge, practice, primary care physicians, Maturity Onset Diabetes of the Young (MODY).