Hyderabad’s Aster Prime Hospital has announced a free diabetic foot screening initiative to help 500 patients avoid potential amputations through early detection. Headed by Dr. Gnaneshwar, Senior Consultant and Head of Vascular Surgery, the campaign aims to spread awareness about diabetic foot complications and improve blood circulation in patients with vascular issues.
Importance of Early Screening
Diabetes is a widespread concern in India, affecting millions of people. Among its many complications, diabetic neuropathy and poor blood circulation to the lower limbs are serious risks, often leading to ulcers, infections, and, in severe cases, amputations. According to Dr. Gnaneshwar, many amputations can be avoided through early diagnosis and treatment. The Aster Prime Hospital foot screening campaign, therefore, plays a crucial role in identifying these issues before they become severe.
The screening, offered from September 22 to November 20, is available for patients who call 9010100536 and schedule an appointment between 12 PM and 3 PM daily. In addition to free screenings, the hospital offers a 50% discount on further tests if required. Patients who have been diabetic for over four to five years or those experiencing foot problems are strongly encouraged to take part.
What Does the Screening Include?
During the screening, medical professionals perform a variety of tests. They begin with a visual examination to check for ulcers, wounds, and other visible issues. More advanced tests, such as the Ankle-Brachial Pressure Index (ABPI), assess blood circulation by comparing blood pressure in the ankles and arms. These results help determine any blockages that might restrict blood flow to the feet. Dr. Gnaneshwar explained that poor blood flow is one of the main reasons for foot-related issues in diabetics, often leading to infections that do not heal properly.
Using modern equipment, Aster Prime Hospital’s podiatry team also evaluates nerve sensitivity and other critical aspects of foot health. The hospital’s team includes general physicians, vascular surgeons, podiatrists, and plastic and reconstructive surgeons, all working together to provide comprehensive care. This multi-disciplinary approach ensures that patients receive well-rounded evaluations and, if needed, surgical intervention.
Aster Prime’s advanced facilities also support endovascular surgeries, a minimally invasive procedure used to improve blood circulation in patients with vascular problems. This is an option not available at all hospitals, making Aster Prime a leader in the treatment of diabetic foot complications.
Raising Awareness: The “I Prevent Amputation” Campaign
Alongside the free screenings, Aster Prime Hospital is launching an educational campaign titled “I Prevent Amputation.” The campaign aims to highlight the dangers of untreated diabetic complications, with a particular focus on raising awareness about how poor circulation and neuropathy can lead to amputations.
Dr. Gnaneshwar emphasized the importance of regular check-ups for diabetics. Many patients believe that managing blood sugar and blood pressure levels is enough to prevent complications. However, long-term diabetes can cause blood vessel blockages similar to those experienced in heart disease, which, if left untreated, can severely affect the lower limbs. Through this initiative, Aster Prime hopes to inform the public that prevention is possible with early diagnosis and the right treatment.
Improved Awareness and Treatment Over the Years
Dr. Gnaneshwar reflected on the progress in vascular surgery and diabetes management over the past two decades. In the early 2000s, awareness about diabetic foot care was minimal, often leading to amputations when issues were discovered too late. However, advancements in vascular surgery and podiatry have revolutionized care, offering better outcomes for patients with diabetic foot complications. These developments, combined with initiatives like the free foot screening, have significantly reduced the need for amputations by improving blood circulation through early intervention.
Comprehensive Care Team
Aster Prime’s podiatry department is supported by a highly experienced team that includes vascular surgeons, general surgeons, podiatrists, and plastic surgeons. Dr. Gnaneshwar and his colleagues work closely with other departments to provide patients with holistic care that addresses all aspects of diabetic foot management.
During the press conference, other key members of Aster Prime Hospital’s leadership and medical team were present, including Medical Director Dr. Sushma Rani Sagam, AGM Marketing Mr. Vedantam Ravi Kumar, HOD & Senior Consultant Physician Dr. Uday Lal, and Consultant Plastic Surgeon Dr. Anurag Chitranshi.
Aster Prime Hospital’s free diabetic foot screening initiative offers hope to patients at risk of amputation. By providing early diagnosis and advanced treatments, the hospital seeks to improve the quality of life for diabetic patients.
For those interested in the free screening, registration is open by calling 9010100536. With a limited window for this offer, Aster Prime encourages diabetic patients to take advantage of this opportunity for early intervention and comprehensive care.
