KNOWLEDGE AND PRACTICE OF FOOT CARE IN PATIENTS WITH TYPE 1 AND 2 DIABETES AT NATIONAL INSTITUTE OF DIABETES AND ENDOCRINOLOGY IN CAIRO

Abstract

Diabetes mellitus is one of the most common chronic diseases worldwide. It is one of the sixth leading causes of death in the United States. Egypt reported at least 8.6 million adults with diabetes which was the eleventh most important cause of premature mortality in Egypt. People with diabetes may develop several different foot problems as a result of nerve damage. Diabetic foot adds to economic burden due to huge expenditure on treatment, loss of productivity, frequent recurrence of the problem, and high rate of amputation. Establishing adequate knowledge and practice regarding diabetic foot care will reduce the threat of diabetic foot complications and ultimately amputation. Aim: The study determines levels of knowledge towards foot care and practices in type 1 diabetes (T1D) and type 2 diabetes (T2D). Setting: National Institute of Diabetes and Endocrinology in Cairo. Sample: About 541 patients (250 T1D and 291 T2D) was selected. Research design: Comparative descriptive exploratory design was utilized. Results: Highly significant differences were found between both groups regarding knowledge of diabetic foot care. Highly significant association was found between both groups in relation to foot care measures, no significant association between both groups as regards to levels of knowledge. A highly statistically significant association was found between the mean of knowledge scores and other variables and also with practice scores. Conclusion: Patients are aware of their disease and had desirable knowledge and poor practice of foot care. Strategies to expand a nationwide network of diabetes centers with implementation of primary prevention programs regarding foot care needed.