Not everyone with diabetes develops diabetic foot, but certain conditions may markedly increase the risk of wounds developing or recurring.
Knowing the level of risk helps tailor the frequency of checks and the preventive care plan to the individual.
- Long-standing or uncontrolled diabetes
- Previous foot wound or amputation
- Loss of sensation or vascular disease
- Foot deformity and unsuitable footwear
- Kidney failure and smoking
Main risk factors
Diabetes duration, blood sugar control, previous wounds and smoking are considered in risk assessment.
- Loss of sensation in the foot
- Vascular disease
- Foot deformity
- Calluses or pre-ulcerative skin changes
- Previous foot wound or amputation
- End-stage kidney failure
- Unsuitable footwear
High-risk patient group
People with a previous foot wound or amputation, loss of sensation, poor circulation or end-stage kidney failure require closer, regular professional foot follow-up.
Screening intervals by risk level
IWGDF risk level is determined by clinical foot examination. Professional foot screening is recommended at least annually for very low risk, every 6–12 months for low risk, every 3–6 months for moderate risk and every 1–3 months for high risk. Do not wait for the scheduled checkup if a new problem develops.
The effect of smoking
Smoking can further impair circulation by affecting blood vessels, delay wound healing and increase infection risk.
Reducing risk
Blood sugar monitoring, stopping smoking, daily foot checks and appropriate footwear are core parts of the preventive plan.
Assess your risk regularly
If you have previous wounds or amputation, loss of sensation, circulation problems or kidney failure, your healthcare team should determine your risk category and review interval.
Related content
Scientific sources
This information is for general education. The assessment and treatment appropriate for you are determined by a medical examination.
