Rising Diabetes Rates Fuel Record Amputations in New Zealand
new Zealand is experiencing a surge in diabetes-related amputations, with experts calling for increased early intervention and screening to curb the growing numbers. Data obtained through an Official Information act (OIA) request, released to Stuff, reveals a more than 50% increase in lower limb amputations in under a decade.
In the 2023/24 period, nearly 1200 amputations were performed across the country. This included over 70 foot removals, 800 toe amputations, and more than 300 amputations around or below the knee.This is a significant rise compared to the 764 amputations recorded in 2015/16. Worryingly, thirteen of the amputations in 2023/24 were performed on individuals under the age of 30.
The increase in amputations is being observed across several regions, including northland, Counties Manukau, Auckland, Waikato, and Wellington.
Type two diabetes, frequently enough described as a “silent killer,” is a primary driver of these amputations. The condition can lead to poor blood flow and nerve damage, meaning injuries and cuts can go unnoticed and infections become harder to fight, ultimately leading to severe complications.
Lawrence Kingi, a podiatrist who sees approximately 16 patients daily at clinics run through two South Auckland marae, emphasized the need for early intervention. He explained to Checkpoint that uncontrolled type two diabetes over time can lead to amputation. “It’s the silent killer,where they have no control of their pain so they live with it and it’s not until we screen it and find these issues and sometimes it’s too late.”
Kingi highlighted the danger of infections reaching the bone, often resulting in amputation. He noted that diabetes-related amputations are a global issue, and managing the condition can be challenging due to the limitations it creates within the body. “We need to see them at the top of the cliff rather than the bottom, and need to be more proactive in education.”
He advocates for increased podiatric services in New Zealand, stating, “At minimum we should be screening. We need more funding, and initiatives that let us see patients and check their feet.” Kingi pointed to the success of having podiatrists at dialysis services, noting that at Middlemore Hospital, this practice reduced amputations by approximately 10 percent.He expressed concern about the discontinuation of this program.
Health New Zealand acknowledges the critical importance of early intervention in addressing the rising amputation rates. The organization stated it is prioritizing early foot screening and expanding the workforce in high-risk communities. A pilot education program is currently under development, alongside a graduate entry masters program designed to accelerate the training of existing health workers into podiatry. Health NZ is also exploring the possibility of granting prescribing rights to podiatrists to broaden their clinical capabilities.
