Diabetes Surge in Tanzania Leads to Increased Limb Amputations and Prosthetic Needs

Tanzania is witnessing an alarming increase in diabetes-related limb amputations, with approximately 60 percent involving diabetic patients. The majority of amputees require prosthetic limbs due to complications from poorly managed diabetes. CCBRT Hospital faces financial and logistical challenges, impacting their ability to provide timely prosthetic services. Furthermore, the costs of prosthetics vary significantly, highlighting the need for better management and support systems.

Tanzania is experiencing a troubling increase in limb amputations associated with diabetes, which has now become a top cause of disability in the country. Recent statistics indicate that approximately 60 percent of all amputations involve diabetic patients, and all amputees require prosthetic limbs. According to Donald Mchihiyo, a Prosthetics and Assistive Devices Specialist at CCBRT Hospital, the high number of amputations stems primarily from poorly managed diabetes, leading to severe wounds and ulcers.

Excluding diabetic cases, the remaining 40 percent of amputations occur due to birth defects and accidents, with a significant portion, 35 percent, comprising young individuals aged 20 to 45. These incidents are often linked to workplace accidents and motorcycle crashes, underscoring the need for enhanced safety measures. Mr. Mchihiyo emphasized that non-healing wounds, which can arise from physical injuries or ulcers, are critical factors in diabetes-related amputations.

To mitigate this issue, CCBRT Hospital conducts tests to evaluate blood circulation, deciding on amputation sites based on the patient’s condition. The facility aspires to assist a specified number of patients monthly with prosthetic limbs, although financial constraints often limit this number, compelling them to seek additional sponsorship for their services.

Children with limb deficiencies can receive prosthetic limbs as early as two years old, ensuring they develop normally alongside peers. The procedure for receiving a prosthetic limb starts with psychological counseling to prepare patients for the transition. After agreeing to the procedure, they undergo assessments to determine the correct fit and receive training on the proper use of the device.

Despite the hospital’s commitment, challenges persist, including a lack of local manufacturing for prosthetic materials, leading to increased dependency on imports, which can be delayed by high customs charges. Prosthetic limb costs vary widely, from Sh500,000 for partial foot prosthetics to Sh20 million for high-end, above-the-knee options, depending on amputation type and quality requirements. Mr. Mchihiyo noted that the complexity of the production and logistical issues adds another layer of difficulty to providing timely assistance to patients.

The rise in diabetes-related amputations in Tanzania highlights the urgent need for better diabetes management and prevention strategies. With the significant socio-economic implications of such health issues, efforts must focus on enhancing public awareness, increasing accessibility to healthcare services, and improving safety regulations to reduce accident-related amputations. Furthermore, addressing the challenges surrounding prosthetic provision, such as local manufacturing and funding, is vital for improving the quality of life for amputees.

Original Source: www.thecitizen.co.tz