Knowledge and Practices Regarding Foot-Care among Diabetic Patients Residing in Meicheri Taluk, Salem, TamilNadu

Abstract

Background: Diabetes mellitus is a major public health problem in India. The life time risk of developing a foot ulcer in DM is estimated to be 15%. The patients with foot problem spend 32.3% of the total income towards treatment. The objective of the study was to assess the knowledge and practices regarding foot care among diabetic and to estimate the association of the factors with knowledge and practices of foot care. Methodology: This cross-sectional study was conducted among diabetes mellitus with more than 5 years duration living in and around Meicheri. Convenient sampling was followed. Sample size was estimated to be 160. Results: Only 59.4% of patients had good knowledge regarding foot care. Only 26.9% of patients followed good foot care practices. In our study majority 80% belonged >50 years of age. About 31.9% were illiterate and 65% belonged to upper lower and lower middle socio-economic class in this study. Previous foot care advice reception has an association in knowledge regarding foot care but not with practicing it. Regular screening for blood sugar and other systemic illnesses is associated with foot care knowledge among patients. Type of drugs used by the patient is associated with foot care knowledge which is statistically significant. Conclusions: Foot care advice received previously had a significant increase in practices, so that health education regarding diabetic foot care knowledge should be improved to prevent the diabetic foot ulcer morbidities.