Ontario podiatrists recognize World Diabetes Day

TORONTO, Nov. 14, 2013 /CNW/ - The Ontario Podiatric Medical Association (OPMA) and Ontario's podiatrists join in recognizing World Diabetes Day today with a plea to improve awareness of the impact Diabetes has on overall health and particularly on the foot health of the 2.4 million Canadians living with Diabetes.

The prevalence of diagnosed Diabetes has increased by 70% from 1999 to 2009 according to government reports. Podiatrists, as primary health care providers, are on the frontline coping with the increased demand for care of diabetic foot conditions. "Public health sources claim Diabetic foot ulcers cost more than $150 million annually," stated Bruce Ramsden, Doctor of Podiatric Medicine and President of the OPMA. "Diabetic foot wounds left untreated or treated too late led to over 2,000 amputations in Canada in 2011-2012," added Ramsden. Diabetes is a call to action to all health professionals.

According to the OPMA, podiatrists identify and treat wounds THAT could otherwise go unnoticed and, if left untreated, become seriously infected and detrimental to the individual's health. As foot health specialists, Podiatrists can help to manage Diabetic feet among other symptoms. Podiatry has documented success in the prevention of foot amputations resulting from reduced blood flow to the lower limbs. Podiatrists provide the early recognition and foot screenings required to prevent amputations and other complications from Diabetes.

World Diabetes Day (WDD) is celebrated every year on November 14. The World Diabetes Day campaign is led by the International Diabetes Federation (IDF) and its member associations. World Diabetes Day was launched in 1991 by the International Diabetes Federation and the World Health Organization in response to growing concerns about the escalating health threat that Diabetes poses.

World Diabetes Day became an official United Nations Day in 2007 with the passage of United Nations Resolution 61/225. It is celebrated on November 14 to mark the birthday of Canadians Frederick Banting who, along with Charles Best, first conceived the idea which led to the discovery of insulin in 1922.

The OPMA represents over 80% of podiatrists registered to practise in Ontario.

Image with caption: "As foot specialists, Podiatrists help manage diabetic foot and other conditions. The Ontario Podiatric Medical Association (OPMA) and Ontario's podiatrists join in recognizing World Diabetes Day today with a plea to improve awareness of the impact Diabetes has on overall health and particularly on the foot health of the 2.4 million Canadians living with Diabetes. Know the facts. (CNW Group/Ontario Podiatric Medical Association (OPMA))". Image available at: http://photos.newswire.ca/images/download/20131114_C7640_PHOTO_EN_33375.jpg

SOURCE: Ontario Podiatric Medical Association (OPMA)

For further information:

Contact Bruce Ramsden, DPM at 416-226-4120.