Factors and Consequences Associated With Diabetic Foot Problems Among Diabetic Patients in Jordan

Background: Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a common chronic metabolic condition with numerous consequences, including diabetic foot ulcers. diabetic foot ulcer (DFU) is the major cause of non-traumatic lower extremity amputations. DFU is linked to several risk factors, including a lack of information and inadequate foot care practices. In Jordan, statistics on diabetic foot are few, with no evidence of the impact of patient education on disease outcomes.

Aims: To assess DFU-related risk factors and complications among DM patients in Northern Jordan. Also, analyze the impact of educational intervention on their behavior.

Methods: A prospective cross-sectional sample of 200 DM patients, including 94 with a history of DFU was initially selected. Subsequently, a smaller cohort of 105 patients was randomized into either a control group or an intervention group after providing written informed consent. The control group received standard care, while the intervention group received standard care supplemented with formal educational session followed by ongoing education on foot care using mobile health by a clinical pharmacist. Diabetic foot-associated risk factors and complications were assessed. Foot care practices and medication adherence were evaluated for both the control and intervention groups at baseline and again after 8 weeks of follow-up. Binary logistic regression was employed to assess factors associated with DFU. The Chi-square test and independent sample t-test were used to compare the behavior between the two groups before and after the intervention.