Abstract
Background:
According to National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) 23.7 % of Saudis are diabetics. Diabetic foot is a chronic complication of diabetes. The incidence of non-traumatic lower extremity amputations is at least 15 times greater in those with diabetes than non-diabetics. Patient education is important to reduce lower extremity complications.
Objectives:
The aim of this study is to assess the knowledge, attitudes, practices and risk factors influencing diabetic foot ulcers among diabetes patients attending diabetic clinics in a Saudi hospitals.
Methods:
This cross-sectional survey was carried out in Makkah Region of Saudi Arabia from March to May 2017. Diabetic patients attending various hospitals and clinics in Jeddah and Rabigh were requested to voluntarily answer a questionnaire. The outcome variables were knowledge and practice regarding foot care, the data was analyzed on SPSS.
Results:
181 diabetic patients including 122 males and 59 females participated in study with a male to female ratio of 2:1. Diabetic foot ulcers were observed in 13.3% of these patients. Majority of participants had good education and favorable attitudes towards diabetic foot care. Interestingly, despite good knowledge, a high percentage of participants ignored instructions before buying new shoes.
Conclusion:
All patients with diabetes mellitus should be educated regarding diabetic foot complications and care to improve knowledge and attitudes. This improvement can be achieved by awareness programs for the early detection and care of diabetic foot problem.