Rates of Amputations Among Diabetics in Saudi Arabia

Abstract

According to the World Health Organization Saudi Arabia has the second highest diabetes rate in the Middle East and ranks seventh globally. Around 7 million people are diabetic, and almost 3 million have pre-diabetes, according to estimates. Perhaps even more concerning is the recent increase in diabetes cases reported in Saudi Arabia. In fact, diabetes has risen by ten times in Saudi Arabia during the last three centuries. Diabetic foot ulcer is the leading source of morbidity and prolonged hospitalization, with approximately twice the likelihood of amputations compared to ulcers that are not infected. Diabetic foot ulcer affects 6.3% of the world's population, with men being more prone to developing them. The purpose of this research is to review the available information about rates of amputation among diabetics in Saudi Arabia. Even though diabetes is a significant public health concern in the Middle East and North Africa area, with high incidence of diabetic foot problems, data on prevalence and mortality among this high-risk group is scarce. As the prevalence of the diabetes is increasing in Saudi Arabia so are the diabetes related complications and diabetic foot complications are becoming more common as well. To analyse the existing condition and audit the ongoing prevention programs, large community-based surveys must be conducted. Efforts must be made to minimize the risk of amputation as well as fatalities among diabetic foot problems patients.