Risk factors for foot ulceration among adult patients with diabetes on chronic hemodialysis in Dakahlia Governorate, Egypt

Background Although risk factors for diabetic foot ulceration have been extensively studied in patients with diabetes in Egypt, there is surprisingly limited evidence among those on chronic hemodialysis (CHD). The study aimed to scrutinize the risk factors for foot ulceration in adult patients with diabetes with end-stage renal disease on hemodialysis in Dakahlia Governorate central hemodialysis units. Patients and methods This cross-sectional study included all diabetic patients under CHD aged more than or equal to 18 years (n=98), recruited over 7 months from the largest seven central hemodialysis units in Dakahlia Governorate, Egypt. Data collection consisted of a participant interview, medical record review, and noninvasive comprehensive foot examination. The assessment included peripheral neuropathy, peripheral arterial disease, other foot pathologies, footwear, and foot health care behavior. Results The study included 57 males and 41 females. The median duration of diabetes was 15 (2–33) years. Overall, 61 (62.2%) patients were on insulin therapy. The median duration of hemodialysis was 3 years. Insensate neuropathy and peripheral arterial disease were detected in 65.3 and 15.3% of patients, respectively. The prevalence of foot deformities was 18.36%. Plantar calluses and dry skin were diagnosed in 27.6 and 62.2% of patients, respectively. A total of two (2.04%) patients had active foot ulcers and nine (9.18%) patients had ulcers in remission; therefore, the overall diabetic foot ulceration prevalence was 11.22%. In addition, 10 (10.2%) patients had previous minor amputations, with no reported major amputations. Overall, 95.92% had poor foot health care behaviors, and 81.63% were using inappropriate footwear. None of the included patients previously used custom-made insoles. Conclusions The key finding of this article suggests a high prevalence of risk factors for foot ulceration among diabetic patients receiving hemodialysis. Diabetic foot screening should be included in the management strategy of those on CHD.