Experts have called for a focus on preventing diabetes related amputations, as figures soar to more than 4,400 performed at Australian hospitals every year.

Launching National Diabetes week in Melbourne Diabetes Australia CEO Associate Professor Greg Johnson said the figures reveal just how critical the issue is.

Putting the worrying statistic into perspective, he said today around 12 people will undergo a diabetes-related amputation, and tomorrow, and the next day and the next day.

“85% of diabetes-amputations are preventable if problems are detected early and managed appropriately,” he said.

“This is why Australia needs a new Diabetes Amputation Prevention initiative to end the tragedy of diabetes-related amputations within a generation.”

The next Federal Government should work with State and Territory Governments to establish and fund a Taskforce dedicated to leading and directing the initiative,” he said.

Professor Sophia Zoungas, President Elect of the Australian Diabetes Society said a comprehensive, integrated approach could reduce the number of preventable amputations.

“Fragmentation of the health system means people are slipping through the cracks,” she said.

“We need to re-orient our health system more strongly towards prevention of diabetes-related amputations through more regular checks and risk assessments, and earlier treatment to keep people with diabetes out of hospital.

“Almost all diabetes-related amputations are preceded by sores or ulcers on the foot.

“If these sores are detected and treated early and effectively then they don’t escalate to a situation where amputation is required.

“People should have their feet checked by a health professional twice a year in line with the annual cycle of care requirements for good diabetes management.”