Diabetic Foot Conditions Surge in Karnataka: Insights from the Institute of Endocrinology

Diabetic Foot Conditions Surge in Karnataka: Insights from the Institute of Endocrinology

November 19, 2024 Catherine Williams - Chief Editor Health

Diabetic Foot Conditions Rise in Karnataka

Diabetic foot conditions are increasing in Karnataka, particularly among men aged 35 to 55. In 2023, 13,958 patients visited the Karnataka Institute of Endocrinology and Research (KIER), up from 13,091 in 2022. Since 2016, the institute has recorded 11,258 patients this year alone.

From 2022 to October 2024, KIER conducted procedures on 17,804 patients. There is also a notable rise in amputations. In 2023, the institute performed 55 minor amputations and 12 major ones. So far this year, there have been 65 major and 17 minor amputations.

Amputation Statistics

Dr. Belehalli Pavan, Associate Professor of Podiatry, reported that amputation rates at the institute range from 8% to 10%. Many patients get surgeries elsewhere, leading to incomplete records.

Dr. Pavan linked the rise in diabetic foot problems to a lack of awareness. High blood sugar levels can damage nerves and blood vessels in the feet, causing diabetic neuropathy. This damage can lead to numbness, tingling, pain, or loss of feeling.

Risk Factors for Foot Conditions

Nerve damage reduces the ability to feel pain, heat, or cold. Combined with poor blood circulation, this increases the risk of developing foot ulcers, which can become infected. If untreated, infections may require amputations to prevent their spread.

This year, the institute identified 3,490 cases of diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN), 511 of peripheral arterial disease (PAD), 1,405 with diabetic foot ulcers (DFU), and 228 with both DFU and PAD. Dr. Pavan emphasized the need for early detection at primary health centers to prevent serious complications.

Prevalence of Diabetic Foot Conditions

Podiatric surgeon Sanjay Sharma noted that about 50% of people with diabetes may experience a diabetic foot condition. The prevalence of DFUs in India is about 19%. Each year, roughly 100,000 amputations occur due to DFUs, which account for about 80% of all non-traumatic amputations in the country.

Conclusion

Increased awareness and early detection of diabetic foot conditions can help reduce complications. People with diabetes should monitor their foot health closely and seek medical advice when necessary.