HUNDREDS of diabetics across Hampshire have undergone “devastating” foot, toe and limb amputations in the last three years, shocking figures reveal.

The number of people having diabetes-linked amputations in the NHS West Hampshire Clinical Commissioning Group area has increased by 43% since 2014.

And in Southampton that figure has risen by 21%.

Between 2011-12 and 2013-14, there were 217 amputations due to diabetes in west Hampshire, according to data published by Public Health England.

By the end of the 2014-15 to 2016-17 period, this figure had risen to 311.

Dan Howarth, head of care for Diabetes UK, said: “The latest figures show that, unfortunately, there’s still a great deal of work to be done to tackle rising number of diabetes-related amputations across England.

“Amputations devastate lives.

“It’s so important that everyone with the condition has access to diabetes foot services, and the support of podiatrists and foot care protection teams.

“Access remains an issue, however, and the quality and availability of services still varies

significantly across

England.

“That’s why we want to see greater commitment from government to improving diabetes foot services, ensuring routine, high-quality care to those who need it, regardless of where they live.”

The Royal College of Surgeons says that, despite the name, minor amputations can have a major impact on patients.

They can be difficult to heal, could impair walking, and may even lead to further infections, they said.

According to the charity Diabetes UK, foot problems are the most common cause of hospital stays for people with diabetes.

Diabetes UK says “urgent action” is needed to stop what it described as an “epidemic” of diabetes.

Public Health England says both the survival rate and the quality of life for diabetics who have undergone major amputations – those that are above the ankle – are often poor.