Qualitative exploration into reasons for delay in seeking medical help with diabetic foot problems

Delay in reporting foot symptoms in patients with diabetes to health-care professionals is said to be responsible for limb amputation. While reasons for these delays have been investigated elsewhere, they are not well documented in Nigeria. This study explored the causes of delayed presentation in a Nigerian sample of patients with diabetic foot ulcers.

The study followed an explorative qualitative design in which the lived experience of eight participants with diabetes were explored. The participants completed in-depth interviews which were digitally audio-recorded and transcribed verbatim. Data were analysed thematically using deductive reasoning.

The study identified four themes which included knowledge and awareness of foot challenges, risk perception, health seeking triggers and behaviours and competing priority as the factors responsible for delay in presentation of diabetic foot complications.

Limited knowledge and awareness and negative health seeking behaviours including self-management and consultation of traditionalists were the major reasons for delays.