Twenty devastating amputations every day

[Northerner]

New analysis by Diabetes UK has revealed that the number of diabetes-related amputations in England has now reached an all-time high of 20 a day.

The figures, calculated using new Public Health England data (1), show that the annual number of diabetes-related amputations in England is now 7,370 a year, compared to the previous figure of 7,042. Yet, with good diabetes healthcare and support, experts estimate that four out of five amputations could be prevented as 80 per cent begin as foot ulcers, which are largely avoidable and far more treatable if found early.

The figures show that despite welcome action in some areas of the country on preventing diabetes -related amputations, the overall rate has stayed the same. And because of the sharp increase in the number of people with diabetes in the past 20 years, the number of diabetes-related amputations is continuing to rise. Diabetic foot disease remains the most common cause of hospital admission associated with the condition.

https://www.diabetes.org.uk/About_us/News/Twenty-devastating-amputations-every-day/

 

[Marsbartoastie]

These figures are shameful.

 

[mikeyB]

Absolutely appalling. I can't find any recent figures for Scotland, so I don't know if we are any better. I've no reason to suppose there's a difference.

 

[grovesy]

I have also read today that by treating Diabetic Ulcers with skin grafts was recommended!

 

[Diabeticliberty]

If ever a case was laid out as to why diabetics or all types need to be able to test their blood glucose at regular intervals to enable them to take steps to make corrections or advise their GP if they are unable to take their own steps to correct blood glucose levels then is this not it??????? By this time tomorrow this news headline will be forgotten and diabetics will still be cap in hand in front of doctors who not only do not understand. They do not appear to want to understand.