India Faces Diabetes Amputation Crisis, Says Dr. Anupam Sharan

Lucknow :  Raising the alarm on a silent but growing health crisis, Dr. Anupam Sharan, a renowned plastic surgeon at Vinayak Cosmetic Surgery & Laser Center, Gomti Nagar, Lucknow, launched a dedicated Diabetic Foot Ulcer Clinic, emphasizing the urgent need for awareness, early diagnosis, and accessible care.

During a press conference, Dr. Sharan pointed to a troubling trend that is often overshadowed by more commonly discussed diabetic complications like retinopathy, nephropathy, or cardiovascular issues — the widespread and overlooked issue of diabetic foot ulcers, which are now a major cause of disability and lower limb amputations in India.

📊 The Alarming Data
As of November 2024, 828 million people globally suffer from diabetes.

India alone accounts for 26% of these cases — approximately 212 million — making it the diabetes capital of the world.

Between 15% to 20% of diabetic patients are at risk of developing foot ulcers during their lifetime.

Every year, 50,000 to 100,000 amputations are performed in India due to diabetic foot ulcers — roughly one every 5–10 minutes.

85% of lower limb amputations in India are directly linked to diabetic foot ulcers.

"This isn't just a medical problem — it's a national disability burden that affects families economically, socially, and emotionally," said Dr. Sharan.

🏥 New Clinic, Advanced Tools
The newly launched Diabetic Foot Ulcer Clinic offers several cutting-edge diagnostic and preventive services:

Ankle Brachial Index (ABI): A painless test to assess blood circulation in the legs.

Toe Brachial Index (TBI): Designed for diabetics to measure arterial flow and detect early issues.

Foot Sensation Mapping: For early detection of nerve damage (neuropathy) and risk areas.

Foot Pressure Mapping: Measures pressure points to help prevent ulcers before they form.

Offloading Shoe Design: Custom footwear tailored to reduce pressure and prevent further injury.

🆓 Free Awareness Camp
As part of its launch initiative, the clinic will host a Free Diabetic Foot Awareness Camp on:

Date: Sunday, July 27, 2025

Time: 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM

Venue: Vinayak Cosmetic Surgery & Laser Center

Participants will receive free consultations and advanced diabetic foot screening at a discounted price of ₹1200 (regularly ₹2100).

🗣️ A Community-Driven Initiative
“We are committed to organizing regular outreach and awareness camps across Lucknow and neighboring regions to educate the public on diabetic foot care,” said Dr. Sharan.

He also expressed gratitude to the media for their continuous support since the hospital's inception in 2003. “Your coverage has helped us reach thousands over the years, and with your continued guidance, we aim to save lives and limbs,” he concluded.