At least 1,350 people with diabetes in Scotland have had a lower-limb amputation as a result of the illness, according to new figures.
The Scottish Government revealed the statistic as it said diabetes patients are to receive new feet checks in hospitals and at foot clinics.
Diabetes is the leading cause of lower-limb amputations as it reduces the amount of blood reaching the feet, leading to a loss of sensation and gangrene.
However, in the vast majority of cases, it can be avoided. The new checks aim to identify patients with a foot ulcer or those at risk of developing one, ministers said.
Public Health Minister Michael Matheson said: "Diabetes is a growing problem for Scotland - we know at least £300 million of hospital expenditure relates to diabetes treatment and the management of its complications. Even more is spent on the rehabilitation and care needed after amputation.
"The impact of having a limb amputated can be devastating and can dramatically change someone's life. However, in many cases this is avoidable. That is why we are so committed to ensuring that people with diabetes have access to the best possible care so that the risks of amputation are minimised.
"The diabetes community have already made great progress - more people than ever before are now getting their feet checked and access to the care and support they need.
"The new 'CPR for feet' programme will offer new foot care checks in hospital to everyone with a diagnosis of diabetes to determine their risk of developing foot disease, and gives them the information and support that they need to reduce that risk. This work will ensure that more people with diabetes get access to the care they need."
The figure of 1,350 amputations was revealed in answers to the latest annual Scottish Diabetes Survey.
People with diabetes are 15 times more likely to need an amputation than the general population. Linda McGlynn, Diabetes UK Scotland's national care adviser, said: "Any amputation is devastating for individual patients and so further reductions in both minor and major amputations in Scotland would be very welcome. It shows how important foot care and annual foot checks can be in contributing towards a better quality of life."
