Diabetic Amputations Increase

The number of amputations carried out due to diabetes in Scotland is continuing to rise.

1, 541 amputations were recorded in 2012, that's up by nearly 500 cases on the previous year. Since 2002, rates have increased by 858.

NHS Fife removed lower limbs from 145 patients with type two diabetes, and 27 limbs from type one patients during 2012.

Diabetes UK thinks the increase is down to a big jump in the number of people developing the condition, which is often linked to being overweight.

In England, 135 amputations are happening every week.

The charity is urging all diabetics to make sure they regularly check their feet for injuries and numbness, and to seek medical advice if they experience problems.

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