Diabetes affects many parts of the body including the eyes and feet. Extreme cases of retinopathy or eye disease can lead to blindness. Extreme cases of nerve and foot disorders (neuropathy) may lead to foot/leg amputations. Diabetes is the number one cause of nontraumatic amputations among Americans, with over 86,000 lower-extremity amputations occurring each year. This equals to about 236 lower-extremity amputations (LEAs) each day.

Controlling diabetes may help prevent complications of the disease such as neuropathy, and can prevent symptoms from getting worse. Scientific studies have shown that by tightly controlling blood glucose, blood pressure, and blood fat levels, the chances of developing nerve, vascular, and foot problems can be significantly reduced for people with diabetes.Checking feet daily on your own for changes in shape or sensation, and yearly at the doctor's office can also help reduce ulcers and amputations. Go to diabetes & feet for more information.

Facts about Lower-Extremity Amputations (LEAs)

More than half of LEAs occur in people with diagnosed diabetes, who represent only 3% of the U.S. Population.
They are a significant complication for people with diabetes; blacks and the elderly are disproportionately affected.
Almost 60% occur among people age 65 or older.
Between 1983 and 1996, the rates increased 24%.

[Adapted from inMotion Volume11(2) March/April 2001 article written by Frank Vinicor, MD, Director of Division of Diabetes Translation, Centers for Disease Control & Prevention]

For additional recommendations and/or resources please link to the following sites:

American Heart Association (for heart & stroke info)
Amputee Coalition of America
Centers for Disease Control & Prevention's Statistics
Disabilities [HEALTH]
National Center on Physical Activity and Disability
NIH's National Diabetes Information Clearinghouse

Controlling diabetes can help prevent eye, nerve, vascular and foot disorders

Highlights

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