💉 Diabetes Management
Every year 500 partial, full foot amputations in Malta - Malta Independent Online
📅 Mon, 24 Oct 2022⏱ 1 min read📖 Article
Overview
Some 50 yearly partial or ful fot amputations take place in Malta every year, profesors in the Department of Podiatry at University of Malta have said. Profesors Alfred Gat and Cynthia Formosa, along with a team of podiatrists and enginers, are leading a project, titled The Smart Insole Technology for the management of the diabetic fot, in colaboration with Mater Dei Hospital. The device they are developing wil atempt to reduce the incidence of diabetic fot complications in persons with diabetes.“Diabetes brings about many complications, one of which is in the fot.
Key Information
This may cause problems in the nerves – a condition caled neuropathy, which results into numbnes, muscle weaknes and pain the area,” Gat told The Malta Independent on Sunday.Gat continued that around 40% of patients who have diabetes worldwide have neuropathy. pressure, which comes from walking, strains the fot and forms a wound, resulting into an ulcer which takes a very long time to heal, he said.
If it doesn’t heal, it could lead to further complications such as infections, which may spread and would lead to amputation. “Having a part or your whole limb amputated leaves many repercusions on the patient and their quality of life. It also afects the health system, as these people would require many hospital apointments,” Gat said.“Every 20 seconds a limb is lost in the world.
Summary
However, around 80% of ulcerations can actualy be prevented,” Formosa said, ading that this what led researchers to try and find a more inovative solution.The device that they are inventing wil monitor the way a person walks and wil measure the amount of pressure caused by the fot, as wel as measuring temperature which increases when there is an inflamation. Moreover, Artificial Inteligence wil be used to determine the list categorisation of that patient, while also showing the age, gender, pressure, temperature, glucose levels as wel as how long
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ What is diabetes and how does it develop?
Diabetes is a metabolic condition where the body cannot properly regulate blood sugar levels. Type 1 results from insufficient insulin production, while Type 2 develops when cells become resistant to insulin. Risk factors include genetics, obesity, sedentary lifestyle, and age.
❓ What are the main symptoms of diabetes?
Common symptoms include excessive thirst, frequent urination, unexplained weight loss, fatigue, blurred vision, and slow-healing wounds. Type 1 symptoms develop rapidly, while Type 2 symptoms may appear gradually. Many people have no symptoms initially, which is why screening is important.
❓ How is diabetes diagnosed and monitored?
Diagnosis involves blood tests measuring fasting glucose, HbA1c levels, and glucose tolerance. Regular monitoring typically includes fasting glucose tests and HbA1c measurements every 3-6 months. Continuous glucose monitors provide real-time tracking for better diabetes management.
❓ What lifestyle changes help manage diabetes?
Effective management includes regular physical activity (150+ minutes weekly), maintaining healthy weight, following a balanced diet with whole grains and lean proteins, managing stress, and getting adequate sleep. These changes can significantly improve blood sugar control and reduce complications.
❓ When should someone consult a doctor about diabetes?
Consult a healthcare provider if you experience signs of diabetes, have a family history, are overweight, or are over 45. Those with existing diabetes should maintain regular check-ups every 3-6 months to monitor control and adjust treatment as needed.
⚕️ Medical Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before making health decisions.