Perception of adults with diabetes about their health behaviors.

Objective: To understand the perception of adults with Diabetes Mellitus about their health behaviors.

Method: Exploratory, qualitative study, conducted with 22 adults with diabetes registered at a Healthcare Unit in the central-western region of Brazil. Data were collected through interviews, between August and November 2023, consisting of questions on sociodemographic characterization and health behaviors, in addition to a guiding question. After transcription, the interviews were subjected to thematic content analysis, and the results were interpreted in light of Nola Pender's theory, on the Health Promotion Model.

Results: The perception of adults with Diabetes Mellitus about their health behaviors shows that the process of adopting healthy habits is influenced by multiple factors, especially before the diagnosis. Lack of knowledge about the disease, combined with emotional and psychological barriers, hinders recognition of the need for change. In light of Nola Pender's Health Promotion Model, it is observed that valuing the benefits of healthy practices, strengthening self-efficacy and supporting interpersonal relationships emerge as facilitating elements for critical reflection and transformation of health behaviors.

Final considerations: Understanding the perception of adults with Diabetes Mellitus about their health behaviors reinforces the need for individualized care interventions to promote more effective health practice.