Foot Ulcers among Persons with Diabetes

Diabetes is the leading cause of non-traumatic lower extremity amputations. The presence of foot ulcers is linked to an increased risk for lower extremity amputation. Routine foot examination among persons with diabetes increases the likelihood of early identification of foot ulcers and, ultimately, decreases the risk of lower extremity amputation.

There are currently no data sources available in Virginia for measuring the prevalence of foot ulcers in persons with diabetes with a sample size large enough to calculate a state-level rate.

Healthy People 2010 Objective:
(5-9) Reduce the frequency of foot ulcers in persons with diabetes; rate not specified.

American Diabetes Association Recommendation:
A foot exam should be performed with every diabetes-related visit.

Sources: CDC Diabetes Indicators and Data Source Internet Tool, 2007

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