Introduction:

Almost 10% of paraguayan population is affected by diabetes mellitus. Considering that 15% will suffer from diabetic foot in the long run, it is deduced that it is a complication of transcendence, due to the morbidity and mortality that it entails. The pathophysiology comprises a complex interaction of vascular, neurological and biomechanical factors. A systematic physical review by the doctor, the information provided to the patient, and the patient’s self-care practices, represent fundamental pillars in prevention, because once installed, it is difficult to resolve.

Objective:

To characterize the diabetic foot prevention activities recommended by the doctor and carried out by the patients treated at the Hospital Central (Asunción) and the Hospital Regional (Encarnación) of the Instituto de Previsión Social in november and diciembre 2015.

Methodology:

Observational, descriptive study of cross section.

Results:

Of 228 participants, 54.4% were women, 52.2% were older than 60 years old and 42.1% had secondary education. Responded to know diabetes mellitus 63.2% and 59.6% expressed lack of knowledge about diabetic foot. The majority reported having received medical advice for the care of their feet and a high percentage practiced them correctly.

Conclusion:

Although knowledgeable about his illness, the patient does not measure the complications; and the lack of interest and / o consultation time, leads to overlooking recommendations that should be systematic, including the revision of the feet. It is so the implementation of programs becomes imperative to lower rates of complications and in turn, generate a lower expense for the state in the long term.

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