بكالوريوس / Bachelor's

Research ObjectivesGeneral objective: Determine the prevalence and associated factors of diabetic foot ulcers (DFU) among patients at Al-Jemaih Diabetic Center, Dongola.Specific objectives:Estimate the prevalence of DFU among participants.Describe sociodemographic and clinical characteristics (age, sex, residence, diabetes type/duration, comorbidities, BMI, blood pressure).Assess foot-care practices (daily inspection, footwear, barefoot walking, education). Identify sociodemographic, clinical, and behavioral risk factors (e.g., smoking, physical activity, hypertension, obesity). MethodologyDesign: Facility-based, descriptive analytical cross-sectional study.Population: Adults (≥18 years) with type 1 or type 2 diabetes attending Al-Jemaih Diabetic Center.Sample size: 360 patients, calculated using prevalence data from River Nile State (12.7%).Sampling technique: Systematic random sampling from daily clinic lists. Data collection tools:Structured Arabic questionnaire (sociodemographic, clinical, lifestyle, foot-care).Anthropometric and blood pressure measurements.Direct foot inspection to confirm ulcers.Record review for glucose/HbA1c and comorbidities.Analysis: SPSS v27; prevalence with 95% CI; chi-square and logistic regression to identify associated factors.Ethics: Approval from Northern State Ministry of Health; informed consent; confidentiality maintained. Expected OutcomesFirst local estimate of DFU prevalence in Dongola.Identification of modifiable risk factors (e.g., smoking, poor foot care, uncontrolled diabetes).Evidence to guide screening, patient education, and referral programs at Al-Jemaih Center and Northern State Ministry of Health.Baseline data for future prospective studies and policy planning.Contribution to reducing DFU-related complications such as amputation, poor quality of life, and high treatment costs.

Confidentiality MeasuresNo identifying data recorded: Names or personal identifiers will not be written on questionnaires; participants will be identified only by codes.Secure storage: Completed forms will be kept in a locked location accessible only to the research team.Privacy during procedures: Interviews and measurements will be conducted respectfully, with same‑sex staff where possible, to maintain cultural sensitivity.Voluntary participation: Participants can refuse or withdraw at any time without affecting their care. Data Security MeasuresRestricted access: Only the research team will handle raw data.Minimal risk procedures: Interviews, weight/height, and blood pressure measurements are non‑invasive.Immediate referral: Participants found with active ulcers will be referred promptly for medical care, ensuring ethical responsibility.Purpose limitation: Data will be used solely for this research and shared only with Al‑Jemaih Center and the Northern State Ministry of Health.

Benefits to ParticipantsClinical awareness: Participation helps patients reflect on their diabetes management and foot‑care practices, potentially improving self‑care.Early detection: Direct foot inspection may identify ulcers that patients were unaware of, leading to timely referral and treatment.Health education: All participants will receive brief advice on proper foot care, reducing their risk of future complications. Benefits to the Healthcare System & SocietyLocal prevalence data: Provides the first estimate of DFU prevalence in Dongola, filling a critical knowledge gap.Risk factor identification: Highlights modifiable factors (e.g., smoking, poor glycemic control, barefoot walking) that can be targeted in prevention programs.Policy guidance: Results will inform the Northern State Ministry of Health in planning screening, education, and referral services. Community health impact: Improved prevention and management reduce amputations, hospital stays, treatment costs, and mortality.Scientific contribution: Adds evidence to the literature on DFU in Sudan and similar low‑resource settings, supporting future research and interventions.