Awareness, knowledge, self-care, and preventive practices of Iraqi patients with type 2 diabetes regarding diabetic foot ulcers: A cross-sectional study

Abstract

Diabetic foot problems are characterized by the destruction of deep tissues resulting from macro and microvascular diseases in the lower part of the body. Resulting in malpractice and management with ulcers, infections, and amputations, leading to end-stage disease. Correct strategies and educational programs for diabetic foot care include the following: daily foot inspections, personal hygiene, and appropriate footwear to prevent inflammation and infections, as well as follow-up visits. This study aimed to assess the awareness, knowledge, self-care, and preventive practices of Iraqi patients with type 2 diabetes regarding diabetic foot ulcers. A cross-sectional study was conducted at the National Diabetes and Endocrinology Center in Baghdad City for the period from September 2024 to April 2025. A non-probability (purposive) sample of 100 adult patients who are diagnosed with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). The study instrument, a questionnaire, was designed to measure the level of diabetic patients. The overall mean score for awareness and knowledge about diabetic foot risks was 4.28 (standard deviation [SD]=1.93) out of a possible 11, equivalent to 38.9% of the maximum score. The mean score for self-care and preventive practices was 2.56 (SD=1.45) out of a possible 10, equivalent to 25.6% of the maximum score. These results indicate a generally low level of awareness, knowledge, and preventive practices among patients with T2DM. There are no significant differences found regarding demographic variables (P>0.05). The study recommends awareness campaigns and educational programs to enhance knowledge and information among diabetic patients and prevent foot problems.