Karnataka Launches PRAIAS Initiative to Combat Diabetic Foot Complications
Summary: On March 30, 2026, Karnataka launched the PRAIAS initiative (Podiatry Reach Across India for Awareness and Screening) at the Gulbarga Institute of Medical Sciences in Kalaburagi. The program aims to tackle India’s massive diabetic foot burden—where a new diabetic foot ulcer develops every 12 seconds and a limb is lost globally every 20 seconds—through prevention, early detection, and public awareness. Key component: a Digital Podiatry Screening Van equipped with advanced tools to assess foot pressure, neuropathy, and circulation. The initiative follows a structured outreach model across cities, integrating technology and data analysis for risk stratification and timely intervention. Goal: achieve zero preventable amputations through education, screening, and clinical support in collaboration with diabetic foot specialists and healthcare organizations.
Key Highlights:
- Launch of mobile screening van with advanced diagnostic tools
- Focus on early detection of neuropathy, pressure issues, and vascular risk
- Structured awareness and outreach to reduce amputations
- Relevance: Scalable public health model for high-burden diabetic foot care
Keywords: PRAIAS initiative, diabetic foot prevention, Karnataka diabetic foot, mobile screening