AT LEAST 850 BARBADIANS had amputations here over the last five years, accounting for a total of more than 1 000 amputations. And two local experts say the myth that Barbados is the “amputation capital of the world” is actually fuelling the numbers of those surgeries here.
Their comments come as amputation rates for the last five years here revealed that approximately 215 amputations take place annually, with around 160 being related to diabetes.
Dr Anselm Hennis, professor of medicine and epidemiology at the University of the West Indies and director of the Chronic Disease Research Centre (CDRC), contends that the myth frightens people from seeking medical assistance early. And because they go for attention late they end up losing a limb that otherwise could have been saved.
“Many of the surgeons complain that people present late because they are scared the doctors are going to amputate their feet,” said Dr Clive Landis, professor in cardiovascular research at the CDRC.
Read the full story in today’s SATURDAY SUN.
