Descriptive epidemiology of one of the most common complications in patients living with diabetes in Mauritius: the diabetic foot

<h2>Abstract</h2><h3>Problem considered</h3> Diabetic foot and lower-limb complications are a leading cause of disability and healthcare burden in patients with diabetes, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. Mauritius has one of the highest diabetes prevalence rates worldwide, yet data on diabetic foot and lower-limb outcomes in real-world clinical settings remain scarce. This study aimed to describe the characteristics and treatment outcomes of patients receiving diabetic foot care in a specialized center. <h3>Methods</h3> A retrospective observational study was conducted over 26 months (January 2021–March 2023) at a diabetic foot care center in Mauritius. Adults with diabetes requiring wound care were included. Data were extracted from clinical records. Outcomes were classified as successful or unsuccessful wound healing. Multivariable logistic regression identified factors independently associated with healing success. <h3>Results</h3> Among 198 patients (2,407 consultations), the median age was 65.0 years (IQR 57.0–71.8) and 59.1% were male. Arteriopathy and neuropathy were present in 38.8% and 39.5%, respectively. The most common wound sites were toes (30.3%) and foot (21.1%). Overall, 68.2% of patients achieved successful healing. Independent predictors of success included having 3–10 visits (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 3.1; 95% CI 1.3–7.6; p=0.01), while arteriopathy was associated with failure (aOR 0.3; 95% CI 0.1–0.6; p < 0.001). <h3>Conclusion</h3> Moderate follow-up (3 to 10 visits) was associated with better wound healing, while arteriopathy impaired outcomes. These findings support the need for structured diabetic foot care pathways in Mauritius, promoting early intervention and timely referral to specialist care.