Amputation statistics in Saudi Arabia 2024: Diabetes and accidents lead the way
The Saudi Ministry of Health has released recent and detailed statistics highlighting the health challenges associated with amputations and rehabilitation in the Kingdom. The Ministry recorded approximately 2,859 treatment visits to specialized medical rehabilitation centers during 2024. These figures reflect the scale of the healthcare burden and sound the alarm regarding the main causes of limb loss, primarily diabetes and traffic accidents, necessitating concerted efforts to raise awareness about preventative measures.
Male dominance in statistics: social and functional implications
Official data revealed a striking disparity in the demographic distribution of patients, with males dominating, registering approximately 1,917 cases and accounting for over 67% of total visits. Experts suggest that this higher rate among males may be closely linked to lifestyle, potentially hazardous job roles, and higher rates of driving and road accidents, thus increasing their likelihood of experiencing various amputation risks compared to females.
Diabetes: The Silent Enemy of the Extremities
In analyzing the causes, diabetes topped the list of leading reasons for these complex and life-altering surgeries, accounting for 1,215 cases. This figure is a serious indicator of the complications of diabetic foot, a condition resulting from nerve damage and impaired blood circulation caused by prolonged periods of high blood sugar. Globally and locally, diabetes is the leading cause of non-accidental amputations, underscoring the importance of regular checkups and meticulous foot care for diabetic patients to prevent the progression to gangrene, which necessitates amputation.
Traffic and accidental incidents: a continuous drain
Accidental and traffic accidents emerged as a major contributing factor to the amputations, with 896 cases of general accidents followed by 518 traffic accidents. These figures underscore the urgent need to strengthen public and traffic safety measures and adhere to traffic laws to reduce these permanent injuries, which not only affect the individual but also extend to the family and community, further straining the healthcare system.
Other causes and the role of medical rehabilitation
In addition to the main causes, medical records identified other specific pathological causes, including 82 cases resulting from cancerous tumors (bone and soft tissue sarcomas), and 57 cases of non-diabetic gangrene, while the remaining numbers were distributed among various medical causes requiring specialized care.
These data highlight the vital and strategic role of medical rehabilitation departments in patients' recovery journeys. Rehabilitation is not limited to fitting prosthetic limbs; it extends to providing the necessary psychological and physical support to reintegrate patients into society, enabling them to live independently and return to the workforce, which aligns with the goals of improving quality of life.
