Analysis of the sociodemographic, clinical and therapeutic profile of patients at risk of diabetic foot in primary care in Jaboatão dos Guararapes, Pernambuco

Abstract

Introduction: Diabetic foot is a frequent complication of diabetes mellitus, associated with high morbidity, increased risk of amputations, and impaired quality of life, making prevention essential in primary health care. Objective: To describe the sociodemographic, clinical, and therapeutic profile of patients at risk of developing diabetic foot. Methods: An exploratory, descriptive, and quantitative study conducted with 76 patients diagnosed with diabetes mellitus and followed in five primary health care units located in the urban area of Jaboatão dos Guararapes (PE), Brazil. Data were collected through a structured questionnaire and physical examination, including foot inspection and application of the monofilament test to assess sensory function. Data were organized into frequency tables and analyzed on the basis of the scientific literature. Results: There was a predominance of female participants (77.6%), aged between 61 and 70 years (46.1%), with low education level (55.3%). Among the most prevalent risk factors were hypertension (71.1%) and obesity (36.8%). Although 97.4% of participants were undergoing pharmacological treatment, preventive practices were insufficient, such as regular foot inspection (51.3%) and the use of appropriate footwear (27.6%). Cutaneous changes, such as skin dryness (80.3%), and sensory changes (57.9%) were frequent. Only 36.8% of patients were enrolled in the HIPERDIA program. Conclusions: The findings highlight the need to strengthen educational actions focused on self-care, as well as to expand access to and adherence to programs such as HIPERDIA, aiming to prevent diabetic foot complications and improve the quality of life of a vulnerable population.