Diabetic patients' knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors toward amputation: Insights from HBM and COM-B

This cross-sectional study investigated the knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors of diabetic patients in Northern Border, Saudi Arabia, concerning lower limb amputation, employing the Health Belief Model and the COM-B framework. Among 1321 participants, including 503 diabetics, 78.5% demonstrated awareness that uncontrolled diabetes is a primary risk factor, while 71.1% recognized the risk of infection. Misconceptions persisted regarding obesity (65.0%) and smoking (74.8%) as risk factors. Only 42.5% reported undergoing regular foot examinations, and overall adherence to preventive behaviors was 66.5%. The findings revealed that perceived susceptibility and severity, as well as barriers related to fear, denial, and limited self-efficacy, were significant factors. Interventions ought to enhance patients' capabilities, healthcare access, and motivation through the provision of personalized education, culturally appropriate counseling, and improved preventive services. This is expected to reduce the likelihood of complications related to diabetic foot and the need for amputation.