DETERMINANTS OF DIABETIC FOOT AMONG PATIENTS WITH TYPE 2 DIABETES: A CASE-CONTROL STUDY.

BACKGROUND

Diabetic foot is one of the most serious complications of type 2 diabetes mellitus, often leading to ulcers, infections, and amputations.

AIM OF THE STUDY: To assess the risk factors of diabetic foot among patients with type 2 diabetes.

METHODS

A case-control study including 200 type 2 diabetic patients was conducted. Patients were selected by a convenience sampling technique. The sample consisted of 100 patients with diabetic foot (cases) and 100 patients without diabetic foot (controls). Multiple logistic regression analysis was used.

RESULTS

Older age was prominent with most aged ≥ 60 years and the male-to-female ratio was 3:2. Multivariable logistic regression identified HbA1c ≥ 7% (OR=59.47, p<0.001), diabetic duration≥15 years (OR=59.66, p<0.001), neuropathy (OR=7.82, p=0.008), hypertension (OR=8.99, p=0.003), unemployment (OR=14.33, p=0.032), foot deformities (OR=22.32, p=0.014), history of corns and calluses (OR=51.67, p=0.001), lack of foot care awareness (OR=4.51, p=0.031), and not using emollients (OR=21.36, p=0.002) as independent predictors of diabetic foot.

CONCLUSION

Diabetic foot is strongly linked to multiple modifiable risk factors. Early identification and proper management are essential to reduce complications and improve outcomes.