Knowledge and Behaviors of Foot Care in Muslims With Diabetes Mellitus: Does Islamic Ritual Ablution Make a Difference?

INTRODUCTION: This study aimed to determine the relationship between ablution ritual and foot knowledge, self-care behaviors, and the presence of diabetic foot ulcers in Muslims with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM).

METHODOLOGY: A descriptive, comparative method was utilized to identify ablution ritual and foot knowledge, self-care behaviors, and the presence of diabetic foot ulcers.

RESULTS: There were 228 persons with T2DM, with 162 participants (71.1%) in the ablution group and 66 participants (28.9%) in the no-ablution group, with 19.7% having diabetic foot ulcers. Diabetic foot knowledge and foot self-care behaviors of persons with T2DM were below a medium level, and there was a significant difference between ablution behavior and the presence of diabetic foot ulcers ( x 2  =6.646, p <.05).

DISCUSSION: Culturally congruent interventions that acknowledge and understand the cultural practices and beliefs of Muslims with T2DM may be recommended to enhance their knowledge levels and promote positive behavior changes.