Epidemiology of chronic wounds in Spain: Results of the First National Studies on Pressure and Leg Ulcer Prevalence

Chronic ulcers constitute a major health problem of which the epidemiological impact in Spain is still unknown. For this reason, the Spanish advisory panel on chronic wounds, Grupo Nacional para el Estudio y Asesoramiento en Ulceras por Presion y Heridas Cronicas (GNEAUPP), contemplated the possibility of conducting 2 national prevalence studies: one on pressure ulcers and the other on leg ulcers. Materials and methods: The authors conducted a nationwide point-prevalence survey based on an intentional sample. A specific questionnaire was prepared and distributed to all GNEAUPP members. The study on pressure ulcers was conducted between November and December 2001, and the leg ulcer study was conducted between October and December 2002. Results: During the research period, a total of 458 questionnaires were received for the pressure ulcer study and 353 for the leg ulcer study. The questionnaires received allowed the authors to estimate an 8.25% average pressure ulcer prevalence (8.34% in home care, 8,81% in hospitals, and 7.60% in socio-health centers). Regarding leg ulcers in patients over age 14, there is a 0.16% prevalence estimate (0.09% in venous ulcers, 0.06% in mixed ulcers, 0.013% in arterial ulcers, 0.53% in diabetic foot ulcers). Discussion: Pressure and leg ulcers in Spain constitute a major health problem that is even more serious in older patients. Regarding pressure ulcers, the authors' data indicate that prevention is not yet considered to be a priority. In the case of venous ulcers, it is noteworthy that there is little use of effective compression therapy systems. A global approach to the pressure and leg ulcer problem in Spain is needed.