Diabetic foot ulcer, a poorly known complication
Diabetic foot ulcer is one of the most severe complications of diabetes. Diabetes affects 425 million people worldwide. It is estimated that in their lifetime, 19 to 34% of diabetic patients will develop a foot ulcer.
In 50% of cases, this wound will become infected, which can then be life-threatening. The infection can affect the bone and increases the risk of amputation. After an amputation, life expectancy of patients does not exceed 5 years in almost 70% of cases, a life expectancy lower than that of some cancers. To avoid these risks, the main challenge is to reduce these wounds healing time.
Because each day without a wound means one more day without risk. Therefore, raising patients and caregivers’ awareness on the seriousness of diabetic foot ulceration is key.
Supporting prevention and awareness
Prevention is essential to avoid diabetes-related complications.
With this in mind, the URGO Foundation is working to improve the management of diabetic foot wounds through :
- Educational modules and training videos for front-line healthcare professionals (nurses, podiatrists, vascular surgeons, etc.),
- Innovative prevention and management initiatives for diabetic foot ulcers,
- The development of digital technology to improve patient care.