IMPORTANCE OF HEALTH EDUCATION IN PREVENTING AND CARE OF COMPLICATIONS OF “DIABETIC FOOT” IN PRIMARY HEALTH CARE

Abstract

Diabetic foot disease is a devastating and debilitating complication of Diabetes mellitus, which without adequate management, can lead to ulcers and amputations, resulting in high morbidity and high costs for global healthcare systems. This article analyzed the effectiveness of health education in preventing and caring for diabetic foot complications, through strategies for primary health care. An integrative literature review was carried out, synthesizing multiple studies to provide the main results on the topic. Data collection covered platforms such as VHL, LILACS, PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, EMBASE, Cochrane Library and CINAHL, with publications from January 2020 to March 2024. After the initial screening of 40 studies, 10 articles met the criteria inclusion criteria and were selected for in-depth analysis. The articles highlighted the importance of appropriate educational methodologies, regular clinical foot examinations and the inclusion of family and community support. Health education has proven to be effective in promoting behavioral changes and improving health outcomes, especially with family involvement and interdisciplinary support. It was concluded that health education is essential for the assessment, prevention and management of diabetic foot complications. Structured educational programs adapted to individual needs are essential to promote positive behavioral changes and improve health outcomes. Expanding access to these programs and collaboration between healthcare professionals, patients and communities are vital to the success of primary care interventions for people with diabetic foot complications.