Diabetes is becoming a global burden, with prevalence increasing in both children and adults. This study aimed to determine the level of awareness and basic knowledge of diabetes among adolescents in secondary schools in Port Harcourt, southern Nigeria. It was a cross-sectional study carried out in six selected schools. A structured questionnaire was used to collect information from the students on their basic knowledge of diabetes (such as cause, symptoms, and awareness of childhood diabetes). Out of 880 students interviewed, 293 (33%) identified that diabetes was a disease of high blood glucose, but only 2 (0.2%) knew that it was a disease associated with insulin deficiency. In addition, 291 (33%) stated it was a disease caused by excessive consumption of sugar. Only 37% could identify two or more symptoms of diabetes. Eleven students had a family history of diabetes, but there was no statistically significant difference in knowledge of the cause and symptoms of diabetes in those with or without a family history. Significantly more males, and students in senior classes, had better knowledge of diabetes. The commonest source of the students’ knowledge of diabetes was from doctors (37%) and from teachers (33%). Awareness and knowledge of diabetes among adolescents in Port Harcourt was low, and possibly represents the knowledge of the general populace. There is a need for more education in secondary schools on diabetes in childhood by well-informed health workers and teachers

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