IDFC

The diabetes is a global epidemic. Data from International Diabetes Federation 2015 showed that 415 million people are with diabetes worldwide, while in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) it is estimated to be 35.4 million. Data also suggest that in 2040, this figure will rise to 642 million and 72.1 million in the World and MENA respectively. Pakistan is ranking 10th in the world regarding diabetes, and it is estimated to be 7th in the world by 2040. Currently Pakistan has about 26 % people with diabetes.

Among the various complications of Diabetes, Diabetic Foot is serious complication bearing high treatment cost and higher mortality. Diabetic foot is defined as “Infection, ulceration or destruction of deep tissues of the foot associated with neuropathy and/or peripheral arterial disease in the lower extremity of patient with diabetes” (International Consensus on the Diabetic Foot & Practical Guidelines on the Management and Prevention of the Diabetic Foot 2011).

It is estimated that “at every 20 seconds, a lower limb is lost due to diabetes somewhere in the world”. While in Pakistan it estimated to be around 50,000 major and minor amputations each year. Fortunately, diabetic foot is preventable disease. Good education to healthcare professionals, patients and their families, and applying evidence-based knowledge and treatment modalities have proven positive impact on the patient outcome. Furthermore, one study has shown ⅔ reduction in amputations as a result of a one-hour educational session to the patient and their families. There is more needed to be done in this regard.

According to IDF 2017 report, Pakistan is ranking 10 in the world and by 2045 it will 7th in the world. Pakistan is spending about USD 467 millions on total healthcare expenditures with USD 62.4 per person for the care of diabetes. With this scarce resources, we will be facing huge challenges for the care of diabetic foot. But we will be helping our people within available resources to bring ampuation rates to lower levels.