Diabetic who lost leg warns others about infection risk
New research reveals that rates of lower limb amputations in diabetic patients vary hugely across England, with a tenfold difference between the lowest and highest.
Seventy-two-year-old Barrie Smith's leg had to be amputated below the knee after it became infected when he stepped on a rose thorn.
He failed to notice for several weeks, as diabetics often lose the feeling in their feet due to nerve damage.
By the time he received treatment, the infection couldn't be stopped and his limb had to be removed.
Mr Smith was treated in Portsmouth, which has one of the highest rates of amputation in England.
Diabetes UK are now launching a campaign to highlight the importance of good foot care for diabetics.
07 Mar 2012
- From the section Health