Diabetes is a prevalent chronic disease affecting millions in Latin America, with Colombiaand Peru experiencing significant growth in cases. Colombia has 3.4 million diagnosed individuals, while Peru reports 1.7 million, according to the International 
Diabetes Federation (IDF). However, many cases remain undiagnosed, increasing the risk of severe complications like diabetic foot. This condition stems from diabetic neuropathy (nerve damage) and peripheral vascular disease (poor circulation), leading to decreased foot sensitivity. As a result, minor wounds often go unnoticed and untreated, escalating into infections and, in severe cases, necessitating amputations.
Vulnerable communities in Colombia and Peru face increased risks due to limited access to specialised healthcare services and educational resources on self-care. This lack of support leads to higher rates of preventable complications and amputations.
Addressing this issue requires a comprehensive strategy focused on education for different target groups including healthcare professionals, technology developers/providers, patients and volunteers. The main objectives of the FootForward project include:
- To strengthen the educational background of academic staff in HEIs and healthcare providers in Colombia and Peru.
- To foster collaboration and create synergies between HE institutions, healthcare providers, and key stakeholders.
- To improve healthcare for diabetic patients with “at-risk” feet and ensure that particularly those from vulnerable communities
benefit directly from project activities through educational sessions.
- To raise awareness among key players in the diabetic foot healthcare and management.
- To influence public health policies and educational practices.
- To promote inclusivity and sustainability in education by incorporating gender equality and environmental considerations into all project activities
Project Τitle: Innovative Training for the Diabetic Foot Treatment in Vulnerable Communities in Colombia and Peru (FootForward)
Project Duration: 36 months
Project Framework & Funding: ERASMUS-LS / ERASMUS-EDU-2025-CBHE
Scientific coordinator (UNIWA): Philip Azariadis-Topaloglou, Professor
Consortium – Partners:
UNIVERSITY OF WEST ATTICA / Greece
PONTIFICIA UNIVERSIDAD JAVERIANA / Colombia
CORPORACION UNIVERSIDAD DE LA COSTA CUC / Colombia
PONTIFICIA UNIVERSIDAD CATOLICA DEL PERU / Peru
UNIVERSIDAD PERUANA CAYETANO HEREDIA / Peru
INSTITUTO TECNOLOGICO DEL CALZADO Y CONEXAS / Spain
UNIVERSIDAD MIGUEL HERNANDEZ DE ELCHE / Spain
DIMIOURGIKI SKEPSI ANAPTYXIS /Greece
