Diabetes is one of the most common chronic diseases and is increasing at an alarming rate worldwide.

According to the International Diabetes Federation, there were approximately 463 million people with diabetes in 2019, and this number is expected to rise to 700 million by 2045.

Diabetes is a chronic disease that affects the body’s ability to use or produce insulin, a hormone that regulates blood sugar. When blood sugar levels are not properly controlled, it can lead to various complications, including diabetic foot.

What is Diabetic Foot?

Diabetic foot is a common complication of diabetes that occurs when there is damage to nerves and blood vessels in the feet. It is estimated that around 15% of people with diabetes will develop a foot ulcer at some point in their life.

Diabetic foot ulcers are open sores or wounds that can become infected and lead to more serious complications such as amputation.

The Economic Burden of Diabetic Foot

Diabetic foot is not only a health issue but also an economic burden on society. Foot ulcers often require frequent visits to healthcare providers, prolonged hospitalization, and expensive treatments.

Amputations are even more costly, as they require long-term rehabilitation and medical follow-up.

A study conducted in the United States estimated the cost of diabetic foot ulcers and amputations to be around $9 billion annually. In Europe, the estimated cost is around €7 billion annually.

In addition to the economic burden, diabetic foot also has a significant social burden on individuals, families, and society as a whole. Foot ulcers and amputations can have a devastating impact on a person’s quality of life and mental well-being.

They can lead to loss of mobility, social isolation, and depression.

Furthermore, diabetic foot complications often require long-term care and support, which can be difficult for families to provide. This can lead to increased stress, caregiver burden, and financial strain.

Preventing Diabetic Foot

Preventing diabetic foot is essential to reduce the burden on society. Early detection and management of foot problems can prevent or delay the development of foot ulcers and reduce the risk of amputation.

Foot care education and self-management are also critical for individuals with diabetes to maintain good foot health.

Regular foot exams by a healthcare professional are recommended for individuals with diabetes, especially those with poor blood sugar control, neuropathy, or a history of foot ulcers.

Proper foot care, including daily inspections, good hygiene, proper footwear, and regular exercise, can also help prevent foot complications.

The Role of Healthcare Professionals

Healthcare professionals play a critical role in preventing and managing diabetic foot. They should be knowledgeable about diabetic foot care and provide education and support to individuals with diabetes.

Early detection of foot problems, such as neuropathy, and effective treatment can prevent or delay the onset of foot ulcers and amputations.

Multi-disciplinary foot care teams, consisting of podiatrists, nurses, endocrinologists, and other healthcare professionals, can provide comprehensive foot care and reduce the risk of diabetic foot complications.

Regular foot assessments, wound care, and offloading techniques can help promote healing and prevent infection.

Conclusion

Diabetic foot is a preventable complication of diabetes that has significant economic and social burden on society.

Prevention, early detection, and effective management of foot complications are essential to reduce the burden on individuals, families, and society as a whole. Healthcare professionals play a critical role in preventing and managing diabetic foot, and multi-disciplinary foot care teams can provide comprehensive care to reduce the risk of complications.