Prevalence of Foot Diseases and Injuries and Their Associations with Demographic and Health-Related Factors Among...

Background: Foot injuries are common among Umrah pilgrims due to prolonged walking, overcrowded conditions, and inadequate preventive measures, such as inappropriate footwear or walking barefoot. Despite their potential impact on mobility and overall pilgrimage experience, these conditions remain underreported and insufficiently addressed in public health strategies. Objectives: This study aims to assess the prevalence and types of foot problems among Umrah pilgrims, examine their associations with demographic characteristics and comorbidities, analyze the utilization of medical attention for foot pain, and assess the use of preventive measures to reduce foot-related health risks during the pilgrimage. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted throughout the 2024 G (1445 H) Umrah season at the Grand Mosque, Makkah. The study recruited 1138 Umrah pilgrims aged 18 and older who performed the pilgrimage. A structured questionnaire was administered to collect data on demographic characteristics, chronic diseases, foot conditions, medical-attention-seeking behavior, and preventive practices. Pilgrims with pre-existing foot conditions were excluded from participation. Results: Foot diseases were reported by 46% of participants. The most common foot injuries included sprains/strains (18.7%) and muscle pain/cramps (4.9%), with the leg and forefoot being the most affected areas. Significant associations were observed between foot diseases and lower education levels (p = 0.03), chronic liver disease (p = 0.04), and cardiovascular disease (p = 0.04). Despite the high prevalence of foot-related conditions, only 9.6% sought medical attention, and 14.9% reported using preventive measures. Conclusions: The study highlights a substantial burden of foot problems among Umrah pilgrims, with limited utilization of healthcare services and preventive strategies. Targeted interventions, including educational campaigns and improved screening for high-risk individuals, are essential for enhancing foot health and ensuring a safer pilgrimage experience.