Diabetes-related amputations are rising across the U.S., but Black and Latino Americans are bearing the brunt of this crisis. Each year, about 154,000 Americans with diabetes undergo amputations, and up to 80% of these are non-traumatic lower limb amputations caused by diabetes complications. Many could have been prevented.
Dr. Dean Schillinger, founder of the UCSF Center for Vulnerable Populations, described the situation as “a perfect storm of poor health and lack of medical guidance.” Patients often don’t realize the urgency of treating foot ulcers and can’t afford to take time off work to heal properly.
Studies show that Black and Latino diabetics are four times more likely to need amputations than white Americans. Black patients are also three times more likely to develop peripheral artery disease, which restricts blood flow to the limbs. “It is perhaps the most stark disparity in Black versus white health in America,” Schillinger said.
In San Antonio, a majority-Mexican American city, the crisis is fueled by genetics, poor access to care, processed diets, and sedentary lifestyles. Latino men are especially vulnerable, often avoiding care due to cultural stigma. “For Hispanics in South Texas, diabetes is the big boogeyman,” said Rep. Joaquin Castro.
Dr. Richard Browne of Johnson & Johnson noted that many Black patients don’t receive proper early guidance. Unconscious bias may lead doctors to assume patients won’t return, prompting premature amputations. With timely care, most cases are preventable.
See: “Diabetic amputations are on the rise for Black and Latino Americans” (August 15, 2024)