Low awareness of foot care worsens diabetes complications

Experts highlight a serious issue regarding diabetes-related foot complications, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. Frances Game, a clinical director in England, stated that a primary reason for these complications is a lack of awareness about proper foot care. During a recent speech, Dr. Game pointed out that many foot ulcers, if not managed well, can lead to amputations. She shared findings from a study showing that 80% of diabetes-related lower limb amputations followed an ulcer. This challenges the common belief that complications are unavoidable, emphasizing that preventing or healing ulcers is crucial to avoiding amputations. K. Narayanasamy, the Vice Chancellor of Tamil Nadu Dr. MGR Medical University, announced ongoing research on complications from diabetes in tribal areas. Vijay Viswanathan, the president of the Research Society for the Study of Diabetes in India (RSSDI), stressed the importance of awareness and training to prevent unnecessary amputations. India faces a diabetes crisis, with over 10% of its population affected. According to the Indian Council of Medical Research, about 101 million people have diabetes, and many go undiagnosed. In Tamil Nadu, diabetes rates are estimated at 15%-18% in urban areas and 6%-8% in rural areas. At the event, the RSSDI released a white paper addressing challenges and strategies for diabetes care. The organization aims to improve access to care through mobile health units and telemedicine, especially in underserved areas. They also plan to conduct public awareness campaigns about diabetes risks and treatments, and develop a national diabetes registry to enhance treatment strategies.