Foot Care Knowledge And Practices And Their Correlation With Diabetic Foot Risk In Patients

Abstract

Diabetic foot ulcers and infections occurring due to neuropathy and vascular insufficiency (angiopathy) account for more than 30% of hospital admissions and more than half of nontraumatic lower limb amputations. This study aims at assessing the foot care knowledge and practices in type 2 diabetes and its association with foot risk stratification. All participants were provided with a questionnaire regarding their knowledge, attitude, and practices about diabetic foot and its care. They were also examined for toe/foot deformities, callus, ulcers, dry skin, and fissures. Out of the 100 patients included in the study, the mean age of the study population was 53.41 ∓ 10.49 years. Males were 55 and females were 45. Mean HbA1c levels were 7.6 ∓ 1.6 %. KAP score was good in 52% of the patients. 25% had a high foot risk stratification score, 37% had moderate and 38% had a low foot risk stratification score. The foot risk stratification score was significantly high (p<0.05, CI- 95%) in patients with poor KAP score. Hence, to avoid diabetic foot and properly manage this condition, there is a need to raise awareness of diabetic foot issues and put foot-care practises into place.