Men with diabetes are significantly more likely to have foot or leg amputations compared to women with diabetes. In fact, research studies show that men are two times more likely to get an amputation compared to women with diabetes. Men are more likely to undergo diabetes-related foot and leg amputations at a younger age than women, regardless of the level of amputation. Men are also more likely to have some of the independent predictors for lower extremity amputations such as diabetic foot ulceration, peripheral arterial disease (PAD), cigarette use, and peripheral neuropathy. Sensory neuropathy is the most common type of neuropathy associated with diabetic foot ulceration, and men are twice as likely to have insensate neuropathy as women. Another study found a higher risk for amputation among older persons, men, who were divorced, who had a higher foot risk group, who were on insulin, did little physical activity levels, and those who smoke.
This gender difference is linked to a variety of reasons. Let’s look at why men have higher amputation rates than women.
Men tend to have higher rates of peripheral arterial disease (PAD), which causes lower blood flow to the lower extremities, making them more susceptible to complications like foot ulcers and gangrene that can lead to amputation.
Men also have a higher incidence of peripheral neuropathy, nerve damage causing numbness, tingling and pain in the feet and legs, potentially leading to foot ulcers and increased risk of amputation.
Men may be more likely to engage in behaviors that contribute to PAD and neuropathy, such as smoking and having a less healthy diet.
Studies have shown that men in lower socioeconomic groups experience higher rates of amputation due to limited access to healthcare and preventive measures.
Men with type 1 diabetes have a higher risk of amputation compared to those with type 2 diabetes due to earlier onset of the disease and complications.
Studies have shown that men with diabetes are also at a higher risk of another amputation after the initial amputation.
These reasons are compelling, but there is hope. Eighty-five percent of people who had a foot or leg amputations had an ulcer or wound first. So, if we can prevent or heal that ulcer quickly, we have a good chance of preventing the amputation. Taking consistent preventive measures can help reduce the amputation numbers in men with diabetes.
It is best to eat a healthy balanced diet, get regular exercise, taking your medications every day as prescribed by your doctor. Decreasing your HbA1C by one percent reduces the risk of complications by 21 percent.
Smoking is very bad for your entire body, especially your feet. Nicotine causes blood vessels to get tight and decrease blood flow to your feet. It is best not to smoke.
Learn how to check your feet and do it daily.
Seeing a podiatrist saves legs, lives and money. These visits have been proven to decrease risk of hospitalizations and amputations. All diabetics should have their feet examined by a podiatrist at least once per year, or more often if you have any concerns.
Never walk barefoot indoors or outdoors. Avoid extreme temperatures on your feet, and do not soak your feet in hot water.
Wear sensible, supportive, well-fitting shoes at all times (round or square mouth designs are best).
If you have an injury or wound to your feet, do not try to treat it at home, go to the podiatrist as soon as possible. Early treatment can save your legs and your life.
To prevent amputations and save your feet for life, see your podiatrist for regular care and, if you have any foot concerns, as soon as possible. • For more information, email [email protected] or visit www.foothealthfacts.org or www.footlogix.com. To see a podiatrist visit Family Foot Centre on #45 Daffodil Avenue, Independence Highway or call 605-3668; Bahamas Surgical Associates Centre at Hill Top Medical, telephone 603-1814/5. In Grand Bahama visit Lucayan Medical Center on East Sunrise Highway or call 373-7400.
