Diabetes claims thousands of feet in Pakistan

Diabetes is becoming a serious health problem in Pakistan with experts warning that around 300,000 people lose a foot every year because of diabetes related complications.

Experts say about 50% of diabetes patients who lose a foot or leg may die within three years while around 70% may die within five years.

Doctors explain that uncontrolled diabetes can damage blood vessels and nerves increasing the risk of foot ulcers heart disease and other serious complications.

Among people aged 20 to 80 in Pakistan, the diabetes rate is estimated at 31.4% while nearly 18% of affected patients develop diabetic foot ulcers.

Diabetes occurs when the body does not produce enough insulin or cannot use it properly. As a result glucose builds up in the blood.

The disease can affect anyone and may lead to serious health problems including heart attacks strokes vision loss kidney failure and damage to the feet and legs.

Experts say diabetes is linked to several factors including obesity, stress genetics and other  health conditions.

Regular exercise and a healthy diet can help manage blood sugar levels.  Doctors generally recommend at least 150 minutes of moderate physical activity each week such as brisk walking.

Diabetes is often discovered unexpectedly and delaying diagnosis or treatment can cause permanent damage to the body.

Although there is currently no complete cure for diabetes early diagnosis proper treatment healthy eating and regular physical activity can help control the disease and reduce the risk of serious complications.