DETERMINANTS OF DIABETIC FOOT AMONG PATIENTS WITH TYPE 2 DIABETES: A CASE-CONTROL STUDY.

BACKGROUND: Diabetic foot is one of the most serious complications of type 2 diabetes mellitus, often leading to ulcers, infections, and amputations. AIM OF THE STUDY: To assess the risk factors of diabetic foot among patients with type 2 diabetes. METHODS: A case-control study including 200 type 2 diabetic patients was conducted. Patients were selected by a convenience sampling technique. The sample consisted of 100 patients with diabetic foot (cases) and 100 patients without diabetic foot (controls). Multiple logistic regression analysis was used. RESULTS: Older age was prominent with most aged ≥ 60 years and the male-to-female ratio was 3:2. Multivariable logistic regression identified HbA1c ≥ 7% (OR=59.47, p<0.001), diabetic duration≥15 years (OR=59.66, p<0.001), neuropathy (OR=7.82, p=0.008), hypertension (OR=8.99, p=0.003), unemployment (OR=14.33, p=0.032), foot deformities (OR=22.32, p=0.014), history of corns and calluses (OR=51.67, p=0.001), lack of foot care awareness (OR=4.51, p=0.031), and not using emollients (OR=21.36, p=0.002) as independent predictors of diabetic foot. CONCLUSION: Diabetic foot is strongly linked to multiple modifiable risk factors. Early identification and proper management are essential to reduce complications and improve outcomes.