Amputation risk is associated with diabetes
29/03/2006
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People with diabetes are 15 times more at risk of lower limb amputation than people without the condition, a study has shown.
Diabetes can lead to amputation because of damage to the nerves and blood vessels that serve the limbs.
A study by Wolverhampton-based researchers showed too few were getting the right foot care, leading to having to have unnecessary lower limb amputations.
"This study is worrying. There is clearly a need for better education and care for people who are at risk of amputation," said specialist catastrophic injury solicitor Hilary Pickup.
Diabetes is the UK's second most common cause of lower limb amputation.
Data published by charity Diabetes UK shows that up to 70% of people die within five years of having an amputation.
Research presented at the Diabetes UK Annual Professional Conference in Birmingham looked at the care of people with diabetes prior to amputation.
30 people with diabetes were surveyed, aged between 60 and 80 and who had had amputations.
Things that can put people at a high risk of needing an amputation include ulcers, nerve damage, circulation problems and foot deformities.
The study indicates that over 25% of people who are thought to be at a high risk of amputation are not being offered any kind of specialist care.
The study also highlights the need for better education on prevention and treatment of infections as these can lead to amputation.
Diabetes
Diabetes mellitus - a condition where the amount of glucose (sugar) in the blood is too high because the body cannot use it properly.
Symptoms of untreated diabetes include increased thirst, going to the toilet all the time - especially at night, extreme tiredness, weight loss, genital itching or regular episodes of thrush, and blurred vision.
Type 1 diabetes develops if the body is unable to produce any insulin. This type of diabetes usually appears before the age of 40. It is treated by insulin injections and diet and regular exercise is recommended.
Type 2 diabetes develops when the body can still make some insulin, but not enough, or when the insulin that is produced does not work properly - known as insulin resistance. In most cases this is connected with being overweight.
The main aim of treatment of both types of diabetes is to achieve blood glucose, blood pressure and cholesterol levels as near to normal as possible. This, together with a healthy lifestyle, helps to improve wellbeing and protect against long-term damage to the eyes, kidneys, nerves, heart and major arteries.
Insulin - a hormone produced by the pancreas that helps the glucose to enter the cells where it is used as fuel by the body. It is vital for life.
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