Abstract
Over 415 million people had diabetes in 2015 and the number is projected to increase in the coming years. The complications of diabetes affect millions of people all over the world and diabetic foot is one of the most common. The global prevalence of diabetic foot varies significantly and a reasonable proportion of cases end up in amputation. Despite interventions at various levels, it continues to be a menacing issue in the overall management of diabetes. Diabetic foot ulcer (DFU) is classified as neuropathic, ischemic or neuro-ischemic. Neuropathic ulcers originate in the setting of diabetic neuropathy while ischemic ulcers are secondary to vascular disease. Infections and the intrinsic delayed wound healing that characterizes diabetes are important considerations in the pathophysiology of DFU. The prevention of DFU involves adequate glycemic control and modification of risk factors. While health education is a fundamental obligation of health care professionals, it is paramount that patients adopt the guidelines of feet care and integrate them into daily life in trying to prevent diabetic foot and its consequences. The aim of this review article is to summarize the epidemiology, pathophysiology and prevention of diabetic foot ulcer.
Highlights
Diabetic foot ulcer is a common problem among people living with diabetes
Diabetic foot ulcer (DFU) has been identified as the leading reason for hospitalization among patients with diabetes
A Report by DanMusa et al (2016) from a study conducted in a tertiary hospital in Northwestern Nigeria revealed a DFU prevalence of 6% which is close to the global average [8]
Summary
Diabetic foot ulcer is a common problem among people living with diabetes. It is often an unpleasant experience due to its chronicity, unsightly nature and some degree of negative psychological feeling associated with having a chronic wound. Related is the major sequela of limb amputation. Amputation leads to permanent disability with inability to perform some daily activities. As the diabetes epidemic continues to spread, it is logic to anticipate a rise in complications like DFU in the absence of well articulate strategies that are executed at all levels. Particular attention to feet care should be a central focus in educating and managing patients with diabetes to ensure that DFU is either prevented or noticed early enough
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