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A two-day community walkathon organised under the Directorate General of Khoula Hospital has successfully brought renewed attention to diabetic foot health and its preventable complications.
The initiative was led by Iman Al Lawati, Senior Podiatrist at Khoula Hospital, who served as the main coordinator and driving force behind the event.
Promoting Prevention Beyond the Clinic
Designed as both a physical activity and a public education platform, the walkathon engaged patients, families, healthcare professionals, and community members. The event aimed to reinforce the importance of:
✔ Early detection of foot problems
✔ Daily foot inspection routines
✔ Timely clinical intervention
✔ Proper footwear selection
✔ Diabetes self-management
By taking awareness into the community, the programme emphasised that diabetic foot complications are largely preventable through education and proactive care.
Leadership in Diabetic Foot Advocacy
As the principal organiser, Iman Al Lawati coordinated multiple aspects of the programme, including:
- Clinical awareness messaging
- Event logistics
- Interdepartmental collaboration
- Community outreach
- Patient engagement activities
Her leadership reflects the expanding role of podiatry professionals in preventive healthcare, risk reduction, and patient empowerment.
Why Diabetic Foot Awareness Matters
Diabetic foot complications remain a leading cause of:
- Ulceration
- Infection
- Hospitalisation
- Lower-limb amputation
Many of these outcomes can be avoided through:
✔ Regular foot screening
✔ Pressure management
✔ Patient education
✔ Multidisciplinary care
Community-based initiatives such as this walkathon play a critical role in bridging the gap between clinical expertise and public understanding.
Strengthening Preventive Care Culture in Oman
The event underscores a broader regional healthcare priority — shifting from reactive treatment toward prevention, early intervention, and long-term complication reduction.
By elevating awareness of diabetic foot risks, the programme contributes to:
- Improved patient knowledge
- Earlier presentation of foot issues
- Enhanced compliance with foot care guidance
- Reduced risk of severe complications
IMEA CPO Perspective
Across IMEA regions, diabetic foot disease continues to place significant strain on healthcare systems. Initiatives led by podiatrists, orthotists, and multidisciplinary teams demonstrate how education-driven strategies can reduce avoidable disability and amputation.
Healthcare leadership at the community level remains a powerful tool for improving outcomes.
Movement, awareness, and prevention remain inseparable pillars of modern rehabilitation and limb preservation strategies.
