Knowledge Assessment of Diabetic Foot Ulcer Prevention Among Patients at a Tertiary Care Center in India

Objective: To assess knowledge and practices regarding diabetic foot ulcer prevention among diabetic patients attending a tertiary care hospital in northern India, and to identify factors associated with knowledge levels. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 209 diabetic patients without current foot ulcers attending the outpatient department at Adesh Medical College and Hospital, Haryana. A systematic self-administered questionnaire measuring knowledge of diabetes, foot ulcer risk factors, and foot care behaviors was used to gather data; knowledge scores were classified as inadequate (less than 50%), average (between 50 and 75%), or adequate (more than 75%). Results: The mean age of participants was 45.6±16.7 years with an distribution amongst male and females. Type 2 diabetes was predominant (83.4%). Despite 75% of participants demonstrating inadequate knowledge about diabetic foot care, approximately 63% practiced reasonable foot care. Most participants correctly knew that feet should be washed daily (79.5%) and with warm water (72.6%), but only 33.2% regularly inspected their feet. Patients receiving information from healthcare professionals demonstrated significantly better knowledge (p<0.01). Educational status, employment, and type of diabetes were significantly associated with knowledge levels. Conclusion: Despite practicing reasonable foot care, diabetic patients demonstrated considerable knowledge deficits regarding foot ulcer prevention. Healthcare provider education plays a crucial role in improving knowledge. Structured educational interventions specifically targeting high-risk populations with low socioeconomic and educational backgrounds are necessary to prevent diabetic foot complications and subsequent amputations.