Tanzania is witnessing a rise in diabetes-related limb amputations, constituting 60% of all cases. CCBRT Hospital aims to aid patients with prosthetics but faces challenges such as funding and imported materials. Accidents and congenital disabilities also contribute to limb loss, necessitating better diabetes management and support services.
Tanzania is currently experiencing a significant increase in limb amputations related to diabetes, which has become a prevalent cause of disability in the nation. It was noted that 60 percent of all amputations involve diabetic patients, and every amputee requires a prosthetic limb. The alarming trend was highlighted by Donald Mchihiyo, a Prosthetics and Assistive Devices Specialist at CCBRT Hospital, during an interview published on March 6, 2025.
Mr. Mchihiyo clarified that aside from the 60 percent caused by diabetes, the remaining 40 percent of amputations result from either birth defects or accidents. Notably, 35 percent of these accidents occur among young individuals aged 20 to 45, predominantly due to industrial incidents and motorcycle crashes. He pointed out that many diabetic patients face amputations primarily because their diabetes is either undiagnosed or poorly managed, leading to chronic wounds and ulcers that do not heal properly.
The specialist explained that the non-healing wounds, often resulting from various injuries, can lead to severe deterioration of limbs. In response to these complications, CCBRT Hospital conducts tests to evaluate blood circulation, determining the areas for potential amputation to prevent further health degradation.
In their efforts to assist those in need, CCBRT Hospital has set a monthly target to provide prosthetic limbs to specific patients, which is contingent upon available resources. Mr. Mchihiyo mentioned the hospital’s goal of aiding nine individuals monthly, although financial limitations often reduce this number to four or five limbs, unless sponsorship is secured for additional funding.
The provision of prosthetic limbs begins early for children born with limb deformities. They are assessed and eligible for prosthetic support upon reaching two years of age or upon acquiring the ability to walk. Mr. Mchihiyo emphasized the importance of bringing children for evaluation to ensure appropriate development alongside their peers.
Prior to receiving prosthetics, patients undergo psychological counseling to facilitate their adjustment to amputation. This process involves educating them about the severity of their condition and the risks associated with retaining limbs that are infected. Specialists ensure that patients understand their options, ultimately guiding them through the decision-making and fitting processes.
Patients are systematically trained to use their prosthetic devices, with follow-up appointments occurring every three to six months to monitor any changes, such as weight gain or limb size. Despite the commendable efforts of CCBRT Hospital, challenges remain, including a lack of local production facilities for prosthetic materials, necessitating imports that incur delays and additional costs due to high taxes.
The financial costs of prosthetic limbs in Tanzania vary significantly based on the level of amputation. For above-the-knee amputations, prices range from Sh2.4 million to Sh20 million, while below-the-knee costs are between Sh1.2 million and Sh2.5 million. A partial foot prosthetic limb is approximately Sh500,000, reflecting the disparity in quality and specifications needed for each individual.
In conclusion, Tanzania faces a growing challenge of diabetes-related limb amputations, with a clear prevalence among patients diagnosed with diabetes. The need for prosthetic limbs and the associated financial, logistical, and infrastructural challenges underscore the importance of enhanced diabetes management and support structures. CCBRT Hospital’s ongoing efforts to provide prosthetics highlight the grim realities of healthcare access in the region, demanding greater attention and resources to address these urgent health concerns.
Original Source: www.thecitizen.co.tz
