Individual-Related Factors Influencing Diabetic Foot Ulcer Prevention Practices Among Patients with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus Attending Embu Level 5 Hospital in Kenya
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.70619/vol6iss8pp29-46947Keywords:
Individual-Related Factors, Diabetic Foot Ulcer Prevention Practices, Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus, Embu Level 5 HospitalAbstract
Diabetic foot ulcer is among the main causes of hospitalization and lower extremity amputations among patients with diabetes mellitus, contributing significantly to morbidity and mortality. This study, therefore, aimed to identify the individual factors influencing preventive practices for diabetic foot ulcers among patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus attending Embu Level Five Hospital. The study used an analytical cross-sectional survey design and collected data from 234 patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus. Quantitative data were collected using a semi-structured questionnaire, and qualitative data were collected using a key informant interview guide. Descriptive statistics, Chi-square test, and regression analysis were used to analyse quantitative data using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences. Qualitative data were analysed thematically using NVivo 14.0. Data were presented in tables and narrative form. The study found that 164 (70.1%) of the respondents had poor preventive practices for diabetic foot ulcers. Sex (p = 0.034), level of education (p = 0.006), and knowledge (p < 0.001) were the individual-related factors influencing diabetic foot ulcer prevention practices among patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus attending Embu Level 5 Hospital in Kenya. Male respondents and those who were not knowledgeable were 1.887 and 10.876 times more likely to have poor diabetic foot ulcer preventive practices, respectively, compared to females and those who were knowledgeable. The study recommended that the Embu County government institute awareness campaigns specifically designed for men that emphasize the importance of foot care in the context of diabetes.
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Copyright (c) 2026 Everlyne Lumumba, Lucy Gitonga, Cornelius Muendo, Stephen Kainga , Bonface Linda
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