Reducing diabetic limb amputations in developing countries

Abstract

Among all the diabetes complications, diabetic foot complications are associated with the highest morbidity and mortality. Across the globe, 40-60% of all lower extremity non-traumatic amputations are performed in patients with diabetes. The most important intervention in reducing diabetic limb amputation in developing countries is the education of patients about proper limb care. Cost-effective education should be targeted for both healthcare workers and patients. One of these programs is the Step by Step Foot Project, which was piloted and carried out in Tanzania and India. In this review, the author explores the feasible ways of reducing diabetic limb amputation which can be achieved through a trained diabetes workforce working in an effective system of care that focuses on the education of both the healthcare provider and the patient.

Keywords: Step by Step Foot Project; amputation; developing world; diabetes; diabetic hand; education; foot care; foot ulcer; preventive program.