Diabetes is the epidemic of the 21st century and the biggest challenge confronting Australia’s health care system. Around 1.8 million Australians have diabetes, with 280 Australians developing diabetes every day. That’s one person every five minutes. (Diabetes Australia, 2021)
Diabetes plays a significant role in the health of your feet. If poorly controlled, diabetes can have a detrimental effect on the nerves and blood vessels in your feet, causing a lack of feeling, neuropathy, and reduced blood supply, peripheral arterial disease.
There are more than 4,400 amputations every year in Australia as a result of diabetes. Diabetes Australia states that 85% of amputations are preventable if wounds are detected early and managed appropriately.