Surge in Diabetes-Related Limb Amputations in Tanzania

Tanzania reports a concerning rise in diabetes-related limb amputations, with diabetic patients making up approximately 60 percent of all cases. Mr. Donald Mchihiyo from CCBRT Hospital emphasized the importance of managing diabetes to prevent amputations caused by complications. Challenges such as funding shortages and reliance on imported materials hinder the provision of prosthetic support for patients.

Diabetes has emerged as a significant contributor to limb amputations in Tanzania, with approximately 60 percent of all amputations involving diabetic patients. Mr. Donald Mchihiyo, a Prosthetics and Assistive Devices Specialist at CCBRT Hospital, emphasized that all amputees will require prosthetic limbs following their procedures. He further explained that apart from diabetic cases, the remaining 40 percent of amputations arise from birth defects and accidents.

Among the non-diabetic amputations, 35 percent are attributed to accidents, particularly those involving the younger population aged 20 to 45. An alarming statistic indicates that motorcycle accidents, often referred to as bodaboda crashes, account for a substantial portion of these incidents. Mr. Mchihiyo notes that untreated diabetes often leads to severe wounds and ulcers, compelling many patients towards amputation due to complications arising from these conditions.

Mr. Mchihiyo elaborated on the criticality of timely management for diabetic wounds, as neglect can result in advanced deterioration requiring amputation. At CCBRT Hospital, the medical team assesses blood circulation to determine the feasibility of surgery to remove affected limbs responsibly. The hospital aims to support a set number of patients monthly in receiving prosthetic limbs, facing financial constraints that occasionally restrict their capacity.

As part of the limb prosthesis process, children with congenital limb issues are eligible for devices once they are two years old. Mr. Mchihiyo affirmed the hospital’s commitment to normalizing development for these children through the provision of prosthetic support. Before obtaining a limb, patients undergo psychological counseling to adapt to their circumstances and understand the necessity of amputation, should they need one.

A vital aspect includes the on-going monitoring post-surgery, ensuring prosthetics fit appropriately as patients grow, thus necessitating regular follow-ups. Despite these initiatives, the hospital confronts numerous challenges, including a lack of local manufacturing for prosthetic materials, which mandates reliance on imports and contributes to financial and logistical difficulties.

The costs of prosthetic limbs vary significantly based on the type of amputation—above-the-knee prosthetics range from Sh2.4 million to Sh20 million, while below-the-knee options vary between Sh1.2 million and Sh2.5 million, depending on the specific needs of the patient. These factors highlight the pressing need for improved resources and local production capabilities to better serve Tanzanians in need of prosthetic assistance.

In summary, Tanzania grapples with a significant increase in diabetes-related limb amputations, highlighting the necessity for improved detection and management of diabetes. The CCBRT Hospital endeavors to support amputees with prosthetic limbs but faces financial constraints, import delays, and the absence of local manufacturing. Continued efforts are essential for addressing these challenges and providing adequate care for vulnerable populations.

Original Source: www.thecitizen.co.tz