One-Fifth of Diabetes Patients in Peru Hospitalized Due to Diabetic Foot

A comprehensive study conducted in Peru has revealed that diabetic foot complications account for one-fifth of hospital admissions among diabetes patients. The multicenter study, published in the PLOS One scientific journal, evaluated 8,346 diabetes patients treated across 39 state hospitals in the country. The research findings determined that diabetic foot issues continue to be one of the leading causes of hospitalization and limb loss among diabetes patients. Experts highlighted that this condition is largely preventable with early diagnosis and proper treatment methods. These findings clearly demonstrate the severe burden of diabetes on public health and the urgent need for action.

The research revealed significant gaps in the treatment processes within the healthcare system. One of the most striking data points was that only 36 percent of patients with severe infections received surgical treatment within the first 48 hours, which is considered critical for limb salvage. Furthermore, it was determined that diabetic foot cases in the country's coastal and jungle regions were observed at an intensity three times higher compared to healthcare facilities in mountainous regions. It was identified that 88 percent of the evaluated patients could not adequately control their diabetes, which increased the risk of complications. These results are of great importance as they show how regional inequalities and shortcomings in disease management directly affect treatment processes.

According to data from the Peru Ministry of Health, approximately 8,000 diabetes-related amputations are performed in the country each year. This figure means that on average, a person undergoes a diabetes-related amputation every hour and ten minutes. The fact that men account for approximately 70 percent of cases provides an important clue for investigating the prevalence and risk factors of the disease in this group. It is estimated that 2.8 million people live with diabetes nationwide, and this large population is vulnerable to potential complications. Considering that a diabetes-related amputation occurs globally every 20 seconds, the picture in Peru can be considered merely a reflection of the massive global public health crisis.

Dr. Yudith Quispe Landeo, Director of the Diabetic Foot Research and Salvage Institute (SALVAPIED), emphasized that most of these amputations could be prevented with specialist care and timely medical intervention. Quispe Landeo stated that thousands of amputations occur each year and that this situation could be prevented through specialized attention and the training of medical personnel. The expert called on the incoming government to implement a comprehensive national strategy to prevent diabetic foot complications. The foundation of this strategy should consist of training healthcare personnel, strengthening the equipment of medical facilities, and the early diagnosis of wounds. They added that amputations involve not only the loss of a limb, but also result in the individual losing their independence, experiencing psychological trauma, and creating a massive economic burden on families and the healthcare system.

Experts argue that early intervention and awareness campaigns are essential in combating this public health issue. Dr. Quispe Landeo summarized this approach with the slogan 'Prevent before amputating,' stating that timely interventions can significantly reduce the complications caused by the disease. Preventive measures must be implemented immediately to improve the quality of life for millions of people living with diabetes in Peru and to reduce disability rates. Raising patient awareness regarding regular health check-ups and foot care can lead to a significant decrease in future cases. The simultaneous implementation of accessible healthcare services and nationally planned policies will play a key role in reversing this bleak picture.