Nursing and chronic wounds in global health: Addressing an unresolved burden in low- and middle-income countries

Abstract

Chronic wounds are currently a significant health issue in the world. Despite the substantial burden, these conditions receive less attention than global priorities such as diabetes, cardiovascular, and infectious diseases. This condition has a significant negative impact especially in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). In these regions, fragile health systems, workforce shortages, socioeconomic inequities, and limited access to wound technologies exacerbate the suffering of individuals. Therefore, the perspective article argues that chronic wounds should be reframed as a priority. They are not merely biomedical conditions but complex syndromes reflecting structural inequities and failures in care delivery. The article emphasizes the importance of integrating patient-centered outcomes, pain relief, preservation of functionality, and quality of life into decision-making processes. Furthermore, nurses are vital frontline providers who drive care continuity and technological innovation in underserved areas. Treating chronic wounds must be viewed as a fundamental right and a matter of social fairness, rather than a secondary medical priority. Urgent steps must be taken to prioritize greater investment in accessible technologies, nursing capacity building, and wound care inclusion in global health agendas. These actions are vital for reducing preventable disability and restoring dignity within an equitable health system.

Keywords: Chronic wounds, global health, holistic nursing, primary care, public health nursing