Kiwis are losing limbs in record numbers – and most never see it coming
Summary: Diabetes is driving a surge in amputations across New Zealand, with nearly 1200 toes, feet, and legs lost each year. Despite most being preventable, health systems are struggling to stem the rise. Community-based podiatry programs are helping, but data show amputations have grown by 55% in less than a decade, underscoring the urgent need for prevention and early intervention.
Key Highlights
- Growing toll: Official figures show 1181 amputations in 2023/24, including over 800 toes and more than 300 legs below or around the knee.
- Younger patients: Thirteen diabetics under age 30 underwent amputations, highlighting the impact of obesity and poor diet on younger populations.
- Regional disparities: Northland, Counties Manukau, Auckland, Waitemata, Wellington, and Waikato have seen cases nearly double in eight years, while regions like Canterbury remain stable.
- Community podiatry: Podiatrist Lawrence Kingi works at marae-based clinics, treating foot injuries early and educating patients to prevent progression to sepsis and amputation.
- Human impact: More than half of patients with major lower-leg amputations die within four years, making early podiatric intervention critical.
- Everyday injuries: Even minor wounds like corns, ingrown toenails, or bumps can spiral into amputations when combined with neuropathy and poor circulation.
Conclusion
New Zealand’s rising diabetes-related amputations reveal a preventable public health crisis. Expanding podiatric care, education, and community outreach is essential to keep patients mobile, independent, and alive. Without intervention, the amputation burden will continue to climb, with devastating human and economic consequences.
Read the full article at Stuff
Keywords:
New Zealand,
diabetes,
amputations,
foot ulcers,
podiatry,
Lawrence Kingi