Prevalence of diabetic septic foot, its related complications, and the level of awareness about diabetic foot care among diabetic patients in Hail.

Background: Diabetes mellitus (DM) is one of the most prevalent diseases in Saudi Arabia. Diabetic septic foot is one of its major complications. Better chances and fewer complication rates can be achieved by adopting appropriate prevention strategies. As the early detection of cases will very much contribute to reducing the magnitude of the problem, increasing the patients’ awareness becomes a priority. The objectives of this study are to investigate the prevalence of diabetic septic foot, and to assess the rate of occurrence of its complications among diabetic patients in Hail city in Safar- Rabea Alawal 1433 A.H. We also aim to evaluate the level of awareness of diabetic patients about the proper care of diabetic foot. Methods: A cross sectional facility based study used in interviewing 96 diabetic patients attending the diabetic clinic in King Khalid Hospital in Hail in Safar- Rabea alawal 1433 A.H. Data analyzed using SPSS software. Results: 37.9% of the interviewed patients have history of foot ulcers while 11.5% undergone lower limb amputation. 80% were aware of their foot ulcer risk and of the importance of foot care. Conclusion: Findings showed high prevalence of foot ulcers and lower limb amputations among the studied group. Increased awareness levels were significantly related to the history of foot ulcers.