Multidisciplinary approach for diabetic and leprosy feet

Leprosy Mailing List, May 8th, 2008

Ref.: Multidisciplinary approach for diabetic and leprosy feet.
From: Awcock D., Phnom Penh, Cambodia


Dear Dr Noto,

In response to William Faber's questions (LML April 15th, 2008) 176 of the 265 admissions in 2007 at the CIOMAL rehabilitation centre in Phnom Penh were for ulcer care. This constitutes a growing proportion of our in-patient work because other aspects of the work are decreasing. We are doing less surgery than before and reactions are increasingly being dealt with in general hospitals. The centre is noted for saving feet that other institutions will amputate and the number of patients presenting with ulcers is increasing slightly each year.

These patients are drawn from an estimated 20,000 current and former leprosy patients and the problem of'diabetic foot' is likely to be greater since it is suggested that the number of people affected by diabetes may reach 300,000 within a few years. This has prompted the Ministry of Health and a small group of NGOs to initiate a training programme that takes account of our experience and expertise with 'leprosy feet' through practical sessions at our rehabilitation centre.

Regards,
David Awcock