The Surge of Diabetes-Related Limb Amputations in Tanzania
Tanzania is experiencing a rise in diabetes-related amputations, with about 60% of amputees being diabetic. Poorly managed diabetes leads to non-healing wounds necessitating these surgeries. Prosthetic limb provision faces challenges, including funding shortages, high costs, and delayed material imports. CCBRT Hospital aims to assist those in need but is limited by resources and operational difficulties.
In Tanzania, diabetes has become a significant health challenge, leading to a staggering increase in diabetes-related limb amputations. Approximately 60% of all amputations in the country involve patients suffering from diabetes, with every amputee needing prosthetic limbs. This trend highlights the critical need for effective diabetes management and awareness, as many complications arise from undiagnosed or poorly managed diabetes.
Donald Mchihiyo, a Prosthetics and Assistive Devices Specialist at CCBRT Hospital, explained that among the remaining 40% of amputations, a large share results from accidents, especially among young individuals aged 20 to 45. He emphasized that motorcycle accidents and injuries in industrial settings account for around 35% of these cases, while 5% are due to congenital disabilities.
Mchihiyo noted that the complications leading to amputations are often due to untreated diabetic wounds, which can become serious and non-healing. These wounds, resulting from various injuries, can deteriorate to the point of requiring amputation to prevent further complications. Monitoring blood circulation is crucial for managing diabetes-related limb health, and careful considerations are made when deciding on amputations.
CCBRT Hospital aims to provide prosthetic limbs to a set number of patients each month, with efforts to assist up to nine individuals monthly. However, financial limitations often restrict this to four or five limb fittings unless external sponsorships are available. With funding, the hospital can increase its output to as many as 11 or 12 prosthetic limbs monthly, supported by around five specialized professionals.
For children born with limb deformities, prosthetic assessments begin at age two. The hospital prioritizes early intervention to ensure that these children develop normally. Psychological counseling is also integrated into the treatment process, helping patients understand the importance and risks surrounding their conditions and the need for assistive devices.
Patients receive guidance about their prosthetics after a thorough testing process to find a suitable fit. Subsequent training is provided to ensure proper use, with periodic follow-up appointments to address adjustments in fit due to physical changes. Challenges such as the scarcity of local prosthetic materials and high import costs continue to hinder timely service.
The varied costs of prosthetic limbs range widely, influenced by factors like level of amputation and device specifications. For instance, prices for above-the-knee prosthetic limbs can range from Sh2.4 million to Sh20 million. Below-the-knee options vary from Sh1.2 million to Sh2.5 million, depending on the needed quality. Partial foot prosthetics have a lower price point, around Sh500,000, highlighting the significant financial burden faced by patients needing these devices.
In conclusion, Tanzania faces a critical challenge with diabetes-related amputations, underscoring the need for better diabetes management and awareness programs. The CCBRT Hospital plays a vital role in providing prosthetics, yet constraints such as funding and production delays hinder their efforts. The financial implications of prosthetic limbs remain high, stressing the necessity for support and resources to aid affected individuals. Enhancing preventive measures and facilitating a better supply chain for prosthetics could significantly impact the quality of life for many Tanzanians.
Original Source: www.thecitizen.co.tz
