Diabetes and Amputation: Prevention and Care

Arionget Jemima

Department of Pharmacoepidemeology Kampala International University Uganda

Email: jemima.arionget@studwc.kiu.ac.ug

ABSTRACT

Diabetes mellitus is a major global public health challenge and a leading cause of non-traumatic lower-extremity amputations worldwide. The burden of diabetes-related amputation is driven primarily by preventable complications, notably diabetic foot ulcers arising from neuropathy, peripheral arterial disease, infection, and impaired wound healing. This review examines the epidemiology, pathophysiology, risk factors, prevention strategies, and management approaches linking diabetes to lower-limb amputation. Emphasis is placed on early detection through neuropathy screening and vascular assessment, effective glycaemic control, patient education, appropriate footwear, and multidisciplinary care. The paper also explores wound management, advanced therapies such as revascularization, surgical decision-making, rehabilitation, and psychosocial support following amputation. In addition, health system and policy implications are discussed, particularly in low- and middle-income settings where resource limitations exacerbate outcomes. Despite advances in diagnostics and treatment, diabetes-related amputations remain common, underscoring the need for integrated prevention programs, standardized care protocols, and strengthened health systems. A coordinated, patient-centred, and multidisciplinary approach remains essential to reducing the incidence of diabetic foot complications and improving quality of life for affected individuals.

Keywords: Diabetes Mellitus, Diabetic Foot Ulcer, Lower-Limb Amputation, Peripheral Neuropathy, Prevention and Foot Care.

CITE AS: Arionget Jemima (2026). Diabetes and Amputation: Prevention and Care. IAA Journal of Scientific Research 13(1):32-40. https://doi.org/10.59298/IAAJSR/2026/1313240