The Rising Diabetes Crisis in Mexico
Diabetes is on the rise in Mexico, driven by a growing population and its strong hereditary nature. Globally, the World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that someone suffers a diabetes-related amputation every 30 seconds. Although diabetes is preventable and manageable, its complications—like amputation—are increasing. An alarming 80% of these diabetes-related amputations could potentially be avoided with proper information, resources, and treatments, which remain a significant challenge in the country.
Boston Scientific Mexico’s Innovative Solution: “Salvando Pasos” Campaign
To tackle this issue, Boston Scientific Mexico launched the “Salvando Pasos” campaign in collaboration with NFTs (Non-Fungible Tokens) to benefit the TecSalud Foundation. This pioneering initiative merges digital art and technology to prevent amputations and enhance the quality of life for individuals living with diabetes. The campaign aims to donate minimally invasive procedures (angioplasty) for those suffering from diabetic foot problems, thus avoiding the progression to amputation.
Expert Insights from Dr. Mario Alejandro Fabiani
In an interview with El Economista, Dr. Mario Alejandro Fabiani, Director of the Vascular Medicine Center at TecSalud and a specialist in Vascular and Endovascular Surgery, emphasized that awareness programs like “Salvando Pasos” are increasing diabetes detection and management. He noted that 13 years ago, the diabetes prevalence was estimated at 12%, with a similar number undiagnosed. Although the diagnostic gap is decreasing, it highlights the significant presence of diabetes.
The Socioeconomic Factor in Diabetes-Related Amputations
Dr. Fabiani explained that diabetes-related amputations are not only medical issues but also socioeconomic challenges. He cited studies showing that people from less privileged areas have a tenfold higher risk of amputation due to diabetes. In Mexico, patients treated by pharmacists have five times the amputation rate compared to those in hospitals, indicating a social problem rather than a medical one.
TecSalud Foundation’s Efforts to Save Limbs
The TecSalud Foundation has long been working on a limb-saving program, led by Dr. Fabiani. However, limited resources allowed them to assist only 15 patients annually, while approximately 300 amputations occur yearly in Monterrey alone. By building scientific evidence and demonstrating the benefits of these interventions, they aim to scale their efforts both locally and internationally.
Diabetes, Its Complications, and Prevention
Diabetes affects blood vessels, causing narrowing and restricting blood flow from the heart to various body parts. This can lead to tissue damage, often unnoticed due to loss of sensation. Trauma in such cases can result in severe infections, potentially leading to amputation.
Prevention primarily revolves around education. Patients must be aware of potential complications and monitor their feet for changes in color, minor injuries, or unusual sensations. Healthcare professionals like podiatrists, nurses, and doctors must recognize high-risk feet early. Economic factors also play a role, as some individuals avoid seeking medical help due to fear of amputation.
The “Salvando Pasos” Campaign
This campaign aims to raise funds through NFTs (Non-Fungible Tokens) art. By visiting salvandopasos.com, individuals can donate any amount and acquire digital art. The funds will support life-saving treatments for those at risk of amputation via the TecSalud Foundation.
Conclusion
The “Salvando Pasos” campaign by Boston Scientific Mexico is a crucial step towards preventing diabetic foot amputations. By combining digital art, technology, and awareness, this initiative seeks to provide necessary treatments and save limbs, ultimately improving the quality of life for those living with diabetes.
Key Takeaways
- Diabetes is a growing concern in Mexico, with 80% of related amputations potentially avoidable through proper care.
- “Salvando Pasos” is an innovative campaign by Boston Scientific Mexico to prevent diabetic foot amputations using NFTs.
- Dr. Mario Alejandro Fabiani emphasizes the importance of awareness and early detection in managing diabetes.
- Socioeconomic factors contribute to diabetes-related amputations, highlighting the need for a multi-faceted approach.
- The TecSalud Foundation’s efforts to save limbs through education and scaled interventions are vital.
- Visit salvandopasos.com to support the campaign and acquire digital art.
