Intersectionality, vulnerability and foot health inequity

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Social Determinants of Health
• Foot Health Equity

Background:

• Foot health is often neglected in UK healthcare, despite its strong link to social determinants.
• Individual vulnerability to foot pain and disorders is influenced by intersecting social factors.

Discussion:

• Examines how socioeconomic status, gender, disability, age, culture, ethnicity, and footwear quality affect foot health behaviors.
• Highlights the exacerbating effects of the COVID-19 pandemic and cost-of-living crisis on foot health disparities.
• Notes the reduced affordability of footcare for vulnerable populations, including those with chronic illness and intellectual disabilities.

Key Insights:

• Urgent need to raise awareness of social determinants and their intersectionality in foot health.
• Limited progress has been made in addressing these issues despite previous reports.
• Foot health inequities disproportionately affect older people, rural/urban communities, and diverse ethnic groups.

Outlook:

• Recommends integrating foot health into general practitioner (GP) consultations.
• Advocates for culturally sensitive foot health services and comprehensive educational programs.
• Calls for the development of a more sustainable footwear industry to improve accessibility and quality.