Specific problems of the diabetic foot in developing countries.

As in many developed countries, diabetic foot disease is also resulting in major debilitating complications with severe morbidity and possible amputations in many developing countries. The developing countries, however, have certain specific cultural and social habits that may put a person with diabetes at a higher risk. The high prevalence of neuropathy promotes recurrence of foot infections and these are seldom treated adequately. Lack of facilities in nearby hospitals and unsatisfactory metabolic control are major contributory factors for foot problems. Regular inspection of the feet for signs of neuropathy and other risk factors would play a major role in the prevention of these complications. Patient education for foot care and early institution of preventive measures by the medical practitioners, particularly in view of the high prevalence of neuropathy, will help in reducing the morbidity and economic burden from diabetic foot. Copyright 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.