AMPUTATION rates for people with diabetes in the region have fallen by almost a quarter, according to new figures, yet the rate is still higher than the national average.

Public Health England have found that there are 8.9 amputees per 10,000 diabetics, a rate which has fallen from 11.4 per 10,000 people in 2010.

The national average rate in England is 8.2.

Public Health England has found that despite the North-East's figures falling by nearly 25 per cent in eight years, the overall statistics place the region above the national average.

An estimated 191,000 people have diabetes in the North-East and North Cumbria, which is a serious, life-long condition.

New analysis by Diabetes UK has shown that 500 people living with diabetes die prematurely every week in England and Wales, with many of these deaths being caused by avoidable complications.

The hallmark of diabetes is high blood glucose or sugar levels, which can lead to organ and tissue damage if not treated correctly.

People with the condition are at a higher risk of a diabetes-related injury to a foot which has reduced feeling or reduced blood circulation.

Amputations are more than 20 times more common in people with diabetes and regional groups are working through the Northern England Footcare Network to reduce the number of amputations being done.

Clare Howarth, head of the North at Diabetes UK said: “It’s encouraging to see the hard work being done in the region to reduce diabetes-related amputations, but it is still vital to remind people to get their feet checked regularly.

"When you have diabetes even something small like a blister can lead to an amputation, so if you notice anything out of the ordinary, no matter how small, get it checked by a healthcare professional immediately.

"With the right care and swift action most amputations can be avoided.”

Across the UK, there are now more than 8,500 leg, foot or toe amputations each year.

For support, search Northern England Footcare Network online.