April is Limb Loss and Limb Difference Awareness Month, a time when we come together to raise awareness about the challenges faced by those who have experienced limb loss and limb difference. At Wounds Canada, our mission is to improve the lives of people living at risk for or with wounds, and by promoting wound prevention and care across our country.

As we recognize Limb Loss and Limb Difference Awareness Month, we want to highlight the connection between the risk of limb loss and wounds related to diabetes and peripheral arterial disease. In Canada, an estimated 3 million people have diabetes, and approximately 1 in 5 will develop foot ulcers, which can lead to limb amputations if left untreated. Peripheral arterial disease is another condition that can cause wounds that may lead to limb loss.

We believe that education and awareness are key to promoting better wound care and preventing limb loss. That's why we encourage all Canadians to take steps to prevent wounds and to seek appropriate care if they do develop wounds.

If you or someone you know is living with wounds related to diabetes or peripheral arterial disease, it's important to seek professional care as soon as possible. Wounds Canada can help connect you with healthcare professionals and resources to support you in your community as you move towards your healing journey.

Let's work together to raise awareness about limb loss and the importance of wound prevention and care. Together, we can make a difference and improve the lives of people living with wounds across Canada

This year’s theme is Inspire to Elevate and in honour of this message, Wounds Canada is hosting the Virtual Limb Preservation Symposium chaired by Dr. Ahmed Kayssi. We believe that education about preventing limb loss is the best way to act against amputation.

As such, this one-day virtual learning event, being held on Friday, April 28, 2023, will offer national and international perspectives on the advances in amputation prevention and managing diabetic foot-related complications.  The program will also focus on Indigenous health in limb preservation. The event is a joint venture among Wounds Canada, the Canadian Podiatric Medical Association and D-Foot International.

• Join the Conversation To Learn More About Diabetes Related Limb Loss by getting involved on social media! Follow Wounds Canada's awareness campaigns on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn can amplify our message and important prevention resources throughout the month of April. We’ll be sharing additional information on prevention of diabetes related Limb Loss. Use the hashtags #ActAgainstAmputation #LimbLossAwareness #PAD
• Talking about prevention of diabetes-related limb loss —risk factors, prevention, and available support—is the best way to increase awareness in your community as well as improve the lives of people at risk of diabetes related limb loss and their families. If you or your loved one is living with a diabetes related limb loss, use your voice to help raise awareness or share your experience with our team
• Checking out Wounds Canada resources if you have diabetes or peripheral arterial disease, and want to know more about preventing limb loss.
•  Calling all health providers to join us on April 28th at the upcoming virtual Limb Preservation Symposium to expand your knowledge and network with and earn like-minded professionals. Register now 
• Making a charitable donation to Wounds Canada to help us provide essential support and resources to those affected by limb loss. Your generosity can change lives! 

1.  If you have diabetes, taking care of your feet is crucial to prevent complications like nerve damage, ulcers and even amputation. Don't wait until it’s too late, get your feet checked regularly by an expert! #ActAgainstAmputation #LimbLossAwareness

2. Did you know that people with diabetes are 15 times more likely to undergo an amputation than those without? Promote diabetes education and prevention to change this statistic. #ActAgainstAmputation #LimbLossAwareness

3. Taking care of your diabetes is not just about controlling your blood sugar levels. It’s also about daily foot examination, caring for your feet and preventing complications like limb loss. Remember to check your feet every day and get help immediately if you notice any changes. #ActAgainstAmputation #LimbLossAwareness #LimbLossAwareness

4.  Did you know that  prevention is key when it comes to limb loss and limb difference. That's why we've developed resources to help healthcare professionals and patients prevent and manage chronic wounds. Check out our resources for Peripheral Arterial Ulcers and Diabetic Foot Ulcers. #LimbLossAwareness #ActAgainstAmputation

5. Peripheral arterial disease can cause wounds that may lead to limb loss. Don't ignore the warning signs! Learn how to prevent amputations and improve your quality of life. #LimbLossAwareness #ActAgainstAmputation

6.  Don't let delayed diagnosis put you at risk for limb loss associated with PAD and critical limb ischemia. If you have diabetes, make sure to get screened for PAD regularly to prevent worse outcomes and higher amputation risk. Let's raise awareness and advocate for policies that prioritize timely screening and prevention. #LimbLossAwareness #ActAgainstAmputation #PADscreening