Watch for signs of diabetes

Diabetes is the leading cause of nontraumatic, lowerlimb amputations in the United States. Nearly 21 million people in the U.S. have diabetes and of those, 3.2 are African Americans.

Considered high risk for type 2 diabetes, African Americans are almost three times more likely to require lower-limb amputations than their Caucasian counterparts.

The number of diabetes diagnoses continues to grow. More than 6 million people are afflicted with the disease; many don't know they have it.

An early diagnosis is critical. The warning signs can often appear first in the feet. Check feet regularly for numbness, redness, tingly sensations, burning sensations, loss of hair and/or cuts and scrapes that are slow to heal.

Visit a podiatric physician immediately if any signs appear. These foot and ankle specialists are able to detect foot abnormalities that may lead to disease.

For information call (800) 794-8988 or visit the website www.podiatrists.org.

This story is provided by the Californian Podiatric Medical Association.