The war in Ukraine and diabetic foot care: Challenges, recommendations

Abstract

Aims: A number of reports have illustrated the barriers that the war in Ukraine puts to diabetes care. While their recommendations are valuable for glycemic control and the prevention or early detection of life - threatening diabetes complications, such as hypoglycemia and ketoacidosis, the discourse on dia- betic foot is limited. This letter emphasizes the implications of the war in diabetic foot care and discusses potential solutions. Methods: The authors searched peer e reviewed and grey literature to identify records related to the prevalence of diabetic foot in Ukraine and the standards of care before and after the invasion of Ukraine. Results: Thousands of people in Ukraine sustain diabetic foot ulcers and, thus, are at high risk for lower limb amputations due to the limited access to healthcare services in the country. If not addressed, disability associated with chronic ulcers and amputations can severely affect individual and public health in Ukraine. Strengthening primary and remote care, educating people on self e care and providing adequate supplies for the management of diabetic foot have a major potential to prevent amputations, disability and death. Conclusions: Providing adequate diabetic foot care in Ukraine and other regions tormented by armed conflicts is vital for the health of the local population and the potential of the affected countries to recover after the crisis.