High diabetes rates in Telangana, Andhra Pradesh raise amputation risk

Doctors say diabetes is more common in Telangana and Andhra Pradesh, increasing the risk of foot ulcers and amputations. Early diagnosis, proper foot care, and timely vascular treatment can help prevent limb loss, experts stressed at a medical programme.

Hyderabad: Diabetes is far more prevalent in Telangana and Andhra Pradesh compared to other regions, leading to a higher risk of amputations. One out of every four diabetics develops foot ulcers at some point in their lifetime and they do not feel pain due to neuropathy, senior vascular surgeons and diabetic specialists said on Sunday.

Due to the high prevalence of foot ulcers among diabetics, they worsen and eventually lead to limb amputations. One in every four diabetic patients faces this issue, experts said while participating in a CME programme organised by Krishna Institute of Medical Sciences (KIMS) and attended by 200 doctors.

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Early detection and timely vascular treatments can help save the limb. With coordinated efforts among doctors from various specialties, many diabetic patients can avoid amputations, said Dr Venkatesh Bollineni, senior vascular and endovascular surgeon, KIMS Hospital, said.

Plastic Surgeon Dr Sharath Chandra Reddy and his team advised that diabetic patients must take special care of their feet and seek medical attention immediately, even for minor wounds.