Foot Ulcers Are Leading Cause of Limb Loss.

• Position: DIABETES

Foot ulcers are sometimes omitted from the discussion about diabetes and its complications. Approximately 25% of diabetics will suffer a foot ulcer in their lifetime, reports the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

'These ulcers are as serious as some cancers. We need to have a national conversation," says Robert Snyder, dean of Barry University School of Podiatric Medicine, Miami, Fla. "Right now, we're looking at diabetes in very broad strokes. I think we have to have a greater dialogue and more information about diabetic foot ulcers in general."

Diabetic foot ulcers are the leading cause of limb loss. Of all the lower extremity amputations in those with diabetes, 85% are preceded by a diabetic foot ulcer.

"The mortality and amputation rates associated...