Factors associated with quality of life and functional capacity in patients with diabetic foot in the Dominican Republic

To evaluate the quality of life (QoL) and physical functioning of patients with diabetic foot (DF) and their associated factors. 120 participants with DF were recruited in 5 diabetic foot clinics in Dominican Republic. QoL and physical function were measured with the SF-36 and FAAM questionnaires respectively. Multiple linear regression models were used to determine the factors associated with each of the SF-36 and FAAM dimensions. The median scores for the SF-36's dimensions were: physical functioning 30 (Interquartile range [IQR]: 40), role limitations due to physical health 0 (IQR: 25), role limitations due to emotional problems 100 (IQR: 100), vitality 55 (IQR: 30), mental health 55 (IQR: 24), social functioning 50 (IQR: 50), bodily pain 45 (IQR: 47.5), general health 50 (IQR: 30). Median scores for the FAAM's activities of daily living and sports dimensions were 39.3 (IQR: 25.7) and 28.6 (IQR: 28.6) respectively. After multiple linear regression analysis, factors associated with lower SF-36 scores were advanced Wagner grade, smoking, unemployment, female sex, time to treatment, comorbidities and microvascular complications. Factors associated to lower FAAM scores were Wagner grade and living alone. Patients with DF have poor QoL and physical function, with Wagner grade being the main associated factor. Attention should be given to prevention and opportune treatment. Studies that evaluate the impact of preventive and chronic disease management programs for DF are needed. • The development of Diabetic Foot Disease has a severe impact on quality and functional capacity. • Wagner grade classification was the main factor associated with effects on quality of life and functional capacity, with higher wagner grades meaning lower quality of life and functional capacity. • Opportune treatment and focus on prevention of disease progression can help maintain the quality of life and functional capacity of people with diabetic foot.