Diabetes? Check Your Feet - Hesse Faces Surge in Diabetes-Related Foot Amputations and Infections

Diabetes-related foot problems are rising sharply across Hesse. A recent report by AOK Hessen shows that cases of diabetic foot syndrome have more than doubled since 2013. Experts warn that unchecked wounds can lead to severe infections and even amputations if left untreated.

In 2023, around 1.2 percent of insured people in Hesse were diagnosed with diabetic foot syndrome. This marks a significant jump from 2013, when the figure was less than half that. The increase aligns with a broader rise in diabetes cases, particularly in urban areas like Frankfurt and Darmstadt, where rates have climbed by 25-30 percent over the same period.

Northern Hesse, especially the district of Waldeck-Frankenberg, has seen a higher number of diabetes-related amputations compared to other regions. Statewide, amputations linked to the condition have risen by 13 percent over the past decade. Health officials stress that early detection and treatment could prevent many of these cases.

To tackle the problem, Hesse launched the Diabetes Prevention Program in 2015. The initiative includes regular podiatry screenings, patient education at hospitals such as University Hospital Frankfurt, and subsidised orthopaedic footwear for high-risk individuals. These measures aim to reduce complications by catching issues before they worsen.

The growing number of diabetic foot syndrome cases highlights the need for better prevention and care. With amputations on the rise, health authorities continue to push for wider screening and education. Early intervention remains key to avoiding severe outcomes for those with diabetes.