Enhancing Foot Self-care and Ulcer Risk Management in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus Patients: A Study in Hail, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia

A BSTRACT Context: Comorbid problems associated with type 2 diabetes mellitus represent a significant worldwide public health issue, including Saudi Arabia. Diabetic foot ulcers represent a significant challenge, profoundly impacting patients’ quality of life in terms of their health. Because diabetic foot disease is an avoidable consequence, it requires special attention because it can have devastating implications even from minor injuries, if not treated. Aims: Hence, this study aims to improve and reduce complications associated with diabetic feet, as well as their resulting damages such as ulcers and other neglect and failures to maintain them. Subjects and Methods: For this cross-sectional research, a self-completed computerized questionnaire was employed to gather data from type 2 diabetic patients of Hail, Saudi Arabia, to assess foot ulcer risk factors and how they manage it. Results: According to the results, gender distribution demonstrated a greater proportion of women (58%) compared to men (42%) suffering from diabetes. The outcomes demonstrated a significant variation ( P < 0.05) in foot care behaviors, with 49% looking at their feet. In addition, 43% of the participants checked their shoes, 37% did not, and 20% did so sometimes, showing a significant difference ( P < 0.05). Finally, 32% dried their toes after washing, 41% did not, and 27% did sometimes, with a nonsignificant variation ( P = 0.22). The present study found that 68% of participants suffered from severe dry feet ( P < 0.05). In addition, 38% of participants had foot ulcers with a significant correlation ( P < 0.05), while 61% of participants reported tingling and burning in their feet ( P < 0.05). Conclusion: The study revealed that most participants, especially women, had inadequate foot care habits. Less than half regularly inspected their feet or shoes, and only one-third properly dried their toes after washing. A large proportion (68%) suffered from severe foot dryness, 38% had ulcers, and 61% experienced tingling or burning sensations — all showing significant associations with poor foot care. These findings emphasize the urgent need for better education and preventive strategies to minimize diabetic foot complications.