Leprosy
Mailing List, May 8th, 2008
Ref.: Multidisciplinary
approach for diabetic and leprosy feet.
From: Awcock D., Phnom Penh, Cambodia
Dear Dr Noto,
In response to William Faber's questions (LML April
15th, 2008) 176 of the 265 admissions in 2007 at the CIOMAL
rehabilitation centre in Phnom Penh were for ulcer care. This constitutes a growing
proportion of our in-patient work because other aspects of the work
are decreasing. We are
doing less surgery than before and reactions are increasingly being
dealt with in general hospitals. The
centre is noted for saving feet that other institutions will amputate
and the number of patients presenting with ulcers is increasing
slightly each year.
These patients are drawn from an estimated 20,000
current and former leprosy patients and the problem of
'diabetic foot' is likely to be greater since it is suggested that the
number of people affected by diabetes may reach 300,000 within a few
years. This has prompted
the Ministry of Health and a small group of NGOs to initiate a
training programme that takes account of our experience and expertise
with 'leprosy feet' through practical sessions at our rehabilitation
centre.
Regards,
David Awcock
