Over 200 limbs were amputated last year due to diabetes, and all of these amputations could have been prevented.

Leg amputations in diabetic patients are often the result of ulcers or foot wounds that do not heal properly. If infected, the wound can deteriorate rapidly and result in gangrene. This makes it necessary to amputate the leg. Yet, in most cases, early detection and management of these wounds can prevent complications from developing.

Unfortunately, many diabetic patients are often unaware of their foot condition because of sensory nerve damage, said Dr. Kevin Tan, the Vice President of the Diabetic Society of Singapore (DSS). Hence, simple leg wounds and ulcers can snowball out of control until the entire leg needs to be amputated.

Dr Cosmas Chen, a general surgeon at Mount Alvernia Hospital, noted that many limbs could have been saved with early intervention, effective wound management, good sugar control and good nutrition to enhance the process of wound healing.

To reduce leg amputations due to diabetes, health care company Abbott is partnering DSS in "Abound Save a Leg". Launched yesterday, this educational campaign targets both doctors as well as patients.

Up to 800 GPs will receive educational materials to enhance their understanding of diabetic foot care, including how nutritional supplements can support wound healing, while a public seminar will be conducted next Saturday to highlight the importance of early detection and management of foot wounds and ulcers in diabetic patients (see details below).

Dr Tan stressed the importance of involving GPs in the campaign, saying "they are at the front-line and in a position to detect diabetic foot ulcers early during routine checkups. Patients can then be referred to podiatrists, orthopaedic or vascular surgeons for early intervention or monitoring."

Diabetic patients are also encouraged to examine their legs and feet daily for any wounds, swelling or redness, and to see a doctor if they suspect that something is wrong. Due to nerve damage and poor blood circulation, diabetic patients are often unable to feel anything wrong with their feet until the  problem becomes severe. Hence, a daily visual inspection is important.

Abound Save a Leg Campaign: Outreach to Public
DSS will be giving talks on diabetes, foot care, and proper foot wear on 18 September 2010 (Saturday), 1.30 pm -5.00pm at Suntec Singapore International Convention and Exhibition Centre. Members of the public can call 6842-3382 to register by 11 September 2010. Registration fee is at S$5.00 and S$10 respectively for members and non-members of DSS.

This public education program is supported by the Podiatry Association of Singapore.