Source: About Diabetes

by Nina Nazor

According to the International Diabetes Federation, foot problems are one of the most serious and costly complications of diabetes.

Diabetes in one of the leading causes of lower limb amputations in the world. Daily foot care and proper control is the key to avoid them, but for a person to be able to do so, he or she must be empowered and educated on how to manage the disease.

The International Diabetes Federation mentions some facts about amputations and diabetes:

# Every 30 seconds a leg of a person with diabetes is amputated somewhere in the world.
# Up to 70% of all leg amputations happen to people with diabetes.
# Foot problems are the most common cause of hospitalization for people with diabetes.
# The cost of an amputation associated with the diabetic foot ranges from US$30,000 to US$60,000.
# Most amputations begin with a foot ulcer.
# One in every six people with diabetes will have a foot ulcer during their lifetime.

The good news is that in most cases, diabetic foot ulcers and amputations can be prevented. It is estimated that up to 85% of all amputations can be avoided.

How to avoid amputations?

By following these 5 steps:

   1. Take care of your feet daily
   2. Keep a strict blood glucose control
   3. Visit the podiatrist every year
   4. Find out about foot problems related to diabetes
   5. Learn about painful and non painful neuropathy