The complications of diabetes are not only physically disabling but also place a significant financial burden on patients and healthcare systems. Among these complications, "diabetic foot" is one of the most severe. The Andean region of South America is witnessing an escalating diabetes prevalence, with some cities reporting rates as high as 10%. As diabetes rates rise, so does the incidence of diabetic foot complications. The International Diabetes Federation has highlighted that diabetic foot care can consume up to 40% of healthcare resources in developing countries. Due to the region's persistently high diabetes prevalence, addressing diabetic foot care is paramount.The most dire consequence of diabetic foot is lower extremity amputation, often preceded by ulceration, infection, and gangrene. Correct patient training can prevent these factors responsible for foot lesions. Furthermore, early diagnosis and appropriate injury treatment can preserve proper foot function in most patients, thus averting many amputations.The project aims to reduce the prevalence of lower extremity amputations in people with diabetes, including those with neurological and vascular complications.
The project adopts a multi-partner approach, engaging national diabetes associations, the Ministry of Health in five countries, the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO), the International Diabetes Federation (IDF), and scientific societies. It follows the five fundamental steps for the prevention of diabetic foot, as recommended by the International Diabetes Federation:1. Regular inspection and examination of the foot and footwear.2. Identification of high-risk patients.3. Education of the patient, family, and healthcare providers.4. Provision of appropriate footwear.5. Treatment of conditions preceding the development of chronic ulcers.An advisory team, composed of representatives from project partners, will oversee the general coordination of the project. Each country will establish a national committee responsible for implementing and managing the project within their specific region.The project comprises four components that will be implemented in at least ten primary care units (both public and private facilities) in each country:- Training of healthcare providers in clinical evaluation and the management of diabetic foot care, including 12 hours of theoretical and practical instruction per session.- Enhanced care delivery, involving at least one annual leg examination following a clinical protocol developed during the project.- Education for people with diabetes on self-examining the feet, basic hygiene, and selecting appropriate footwear. Education will be delivered through collective training activities and individual counselling, with educational materials distributed.- Strengthening the referral system for more severe cases.
- Implemented more than 10 EVA modules in Bolivia, Colombia, Ecuador, Peru - Trained 228 doctors, nurses and other healthcare professionals