Tanzania Faces Surge in Diabetes-Related Limb Amputations

Tanzania is experiencing an increase in diabetes-related limb amputations, with 60% of amputees being diabetic. The rise is attributed to poorly managed diabetes leading to non-healing wounds. Limited resources affect the provision of prosthetic limbs, which are necessary for all amputees. Financial constraints have hindered the hospital’s ability to meet the demand, while a lack of local production of prosthetics contributes to delays and high costs.

Tanzania is currently experiencing a notable increase in diabetes-related limb amputations, with approximately 60 percent of all amputation cases involving diabetic individuals, according to a Prosthetics and Assistive Devices Specialist at CCBRT Hospital, Donald Mchihiyo. He noted that all amputees require prostheses, highlighting diabetes as a predominant cause of disability in the region.

The alarming statistics indicate that aside from diabetic cases, 40 percent of amputations stem from birth defects and accidents. Mr. Mchihiyo elaborated that within this group, 35 percent of amputations involve young individuals aged between 20 and 45, primarily due to industrial accidents and motorcycle crashes.

Uncontrolled diabetes often leads to severe complications such as non-healing wounds and ulcers, necessitating amputations. Injuries and ulcers are significant contributors to these conditions. Mr. Mchihiyo stated, “Most of the accidents leading to amputations occur in industries and through motorcycle (bodaboda) crashes, which account for 35 percent of the percentage.”

Currently, CCBRT Hospital aims to assist nine patients each month with prosthetic limbs, albeit limited by financial constraints that often reduce this number to as few as four or five. With sufficient funding, they can provide up to 12 limbs monthly but are hindered by a shortage of specialized professionals in the prosthetics field.

Children with limb deformities are eligible for prosthetic assessments at the age of two or upon learning to walk. Mr. Mchihiyo noted the importance of providing timely interventions to support normal development for these children. Psychological counselling is also conducted to prepare patients for their adaptations post-amputation, shedding light on the benefits of receiving assistive devices over retaining an infected limb.

Once patients decide to proceed, assessments are performed to ensure the appropriate fit of the prosthetic limb. Follow-up appointments are mandated every three to six months to monitor changes such as weight and limb size that may affect the fit of the device.

However, the hospital faces obstacles including a scarcity of sponsorship and the necessity to import prosthetic materials, which causes delays in service delivery. High import taxes further exacerbate the situation, leading to extended waiting periods when materials are in transit.

Regarding costs, prosthetic limbs vary significantly based on the type and level of amputation. Mr. Mchihiyo cited prices ranging from Sh1.2 million for below-the-knee prosthetics to Sh20 million for high-end above-the-knee models, indicating the cost is reflective of both quality and the individual patient’s requirements.

In summary, Tanzania is witnessing a rise in limb amputations due to diabetes, accounting for a significant proportion of all cases. The challenges associated with prosthetic provision are manifold, including financial constraints and external dependencies for materials. Comprehensive interventions, including timely access to prosthetics and supportive counseling, are critical in addressing the needs of affected individuals. By implementing strategies that focus on funding and local production, further progress can be made to combat this public health issue.

Original Source: www.thecitizen.co.tz