School of Podiatric Medicine Publications and Presentations
Document Type
Article
Publication Date
Fall 2025
Abstract
Introduction: Diabetes mellitus is the 7th leading cause of death in the U.S. and 6th in Texas. South Texas counties have higher diabetes rates than state and national averages. This complex, progressive disease affects multiple body systems and can lead to serious complications, especially in the lower extremities. Uncontrolled diabetes is often associated with diabetic foot ulcers (DFU), foot infections, and lower extremity amputations (LEA). South Texas, predominantly Hispanic American, is disproportionately affected. This demographic faces clinical barriers due to a lack of cultural understanding, highlighting the need for culturally sensitive healthcare workers such as promotoras. This study aimed to investigate a correlation between socioeconomic factors of Hispanic American males and rates of DFUs, infections, and LEAs caused by diabetes mellitus.
Methods: A scoping review was conducted using Google Scholar and PubMed (2005–2025). Of 43 articles found, six met inclusion criteria: written in English or Spanish, included “diabetic foot ulcers” AND “South Texas” AND “amputation,” and were available in full text.
Results & Discussion: Insured Mexican American males in their mid-60s had higher infection risks and various LEAs. Mean income and education were reported in only one study. Limitations included insufficient data and overlapping populations. Other contributing factors include biological, behavioral, sociocultural, and healthcare system influences.
Significance: The intent of this study is to conduct a scoping review to examine the correlation between diabetic foot complications and socioeconomic influences among Hispanic males in South Texas. Given the limited data available, this review aims to highlight the gaps in research, emphasize the need to further investigate the health disparities which can lead to diabetic foot ulcers (DFU), foot infections, and lower extremity amputations (LEA), and also highlight the need for culturally sensitive interventions for this demographic.
Recommended Citation
Rodriguez, Mariana J.; Rodriguez, Demian; and Killeen, Amanda, "Diabetes-Related Foot Complications and Socioeconomic Influences Among Hispanic Males in South Texas: A Scoping Review" (2025). School of Podiatric Medicine Publications and Presentations. 120.
https://scholarworks.utrgv.edu/sopm_pub/120
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