Lucknow: Raising the alarm on an overlooked but rapidly growing health crisis, Dr. Anupam Sharan, a noted plastic surgeon at Vinayak Cosmetic Surgery & Laser Center, Gomti Nagar, has launched a specialized Diabetic Foot Ulcer Clinic aimed at early detection, awareness, and timely treatment of diabetic foot complications.
Speaking at a press conference, Dr. Sharan emphasized that while diabetic complications like retinopathy, nephropathy, and cardiovascular diseases often make headlines, diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs) are quietly emerging as a leading cause of lower limb amputations and long-term disability in India.
The Startling Numbers
According to global estimates, as of November 2024, 828 million people are living with diabetes. Of these, India accounts for 26% — approximately 212 million individuals, solidifying its position as the diabetes capital of the world.
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15–20% of diabetics are at risk of developing foot ulcers in their lifetime.
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Between 50,000 to 100,000 amputations are carried out annually in India due to diabetic foot complications — one every 5 to 10 minutes.
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85% of these amputations are directly linked to untreated or poorly managed foot ulcers.
“This is no longer just a medical issue — it’s a public health emergency that places an emotional, financial, and social burden on families,” said Dr. Sharan.
High-Tech Tools, Holistic Care
The newly inaugurated Diabetic Foot Ulcer Clinic is equipped with a range of advanced diagnostic and preventive technologies to address the growing problem:
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Ankle Brachial Index (ABI) and Toe Brachial Index (TBI) for early circulation assessments
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Foot Sensation and Pressure Mapping for identifying neuropathy and pressure hotspots
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Customized Offloading Footwear Design to prevent ulcer recurrence
Free Awareness Camp: July 27
To mark the launch, the clinic will host a Free Diabetic Foot Awareness Camp:
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Date: Sunday, July 27, 2025
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Time: 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM
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Venue: Vinayak Cosmetic Surgery & Laser Center, Gomti Nagar
Visitors will receive free consultations and comprehensive diabetic foot screening at a special discounted rate of ₹1200 (regular price ₹2100).
Building a Community of Awareness
Dr. Sharan also announced plans to conduct regular foot care camps across Lucknow and adjoining regions, aiming to create mass awareness about prevention, early signs, and management of diabetic foot ulcers.
“We’re thankful to the media and community for their support since our inception in 2003. With your continued help, we can save not just limbs, but lives,” Dr. Sharan concluded.
The initiative is a critical step toward reducing preventable amputations and creating a healthier, more informed diabetic community in India.
