International Podiatry Day (IPD) is observed to increase awareness of the importance of foot health and podiatry. IPD focuses on the impact and consequences of foot and ankle ailments and the contributions of podiatrist to promote foot health and treat foot diseases. It’s held every year on October 8.
The International Federation of Podiatrists was founded in 1947 to advance the field of podiatry around the world. The Federation enhances the podiatric profession by sharing knowledge and research among its members. Individuals, healthcare professionals and organizations worldwide take part in this global event to create awareness.
The aim is to spread the word globally about the importance and recognition of foot health, the value of podiatrists, and access to quality care. Access to podiatry care has been proven to improve overall health outcomes and lack of access results in poorer foot health outcomes, such as higher amputation rates, early death and higher health care costs. A recent study of trends in podiatry showed almost a quarter of the podiatrists surveyed are likely to leave clinical practice or the field entirely within five years for various reasons.
This predicted loss of podiatrists is alarming because the demand for podiatry services is forecasted to increase until the 2050s and beyond due to the increasing burden of obesity, chronic disease and an aging population worldwide. In Australia they are estimated to have 16 podiatrists per 100,000 in major cities a.
