Limb Loss and Limb Difference Awareness Month is 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 build a healthier Canada by advancing skin health and excellence in wound management.

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 3.7 million people have diabetes, and approximately 1 in 5 will develop a foot ulcer, 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 toward 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, Wounds Canada is hosting a webinar Grand Rounds: Stepping Up to Save Limbs and Lives on Thursday, April 28th at 6:00 pm ET with moderator Dr. Ahmed Kayssi and an interdisciplinary panel.

Register for this engaging webinar where three real-world case studies will be featured in support of best practices for persons living with diabetes to prevent lower limb complications.

• 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 (accounts linked below) can amplify our message and important prevention resources throughout April. We’ll be sharing additional information on prevention of diabetes related Limb Loss. Use the hashtags #LLLDAM #LimbLoss #LimbDifference #LimbPreservationAlliance
• Talk 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
• Check out Wounds Canada resources if you have diabetes or peripheral arterial disease to learn more about preventing limb loss.
•  Join us for Wounds Canada's 2024 Limb Preservation Webinars. 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! #LLLDAM #LimbLoss #LimbDifference #LimbPreservationAlliance

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. #LLLDAM #LimbLoss #LimbDifference #LimbPreservationAlliance

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. #LLLDAM #LimbLoss #LimbDifference #LimbPreservationAlliance

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. #LLLDAM #LimbLoss #LimbDifference #LimbPreservationAlliance

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. #LLLDAM #LimbLoss #LimbDifference #LimbPreservationAlliance

6.  Delayed diagnosis puts 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. #LLLDAM #LimbLoss #LimbDifference #LimbPreservationAlliance 

In 2023 Wounds Canada joined forces with the American Limb Preservation Society, the Canadian Podiatric Medical Association and D-Foot International to create a Limb Preservation Alliance to address, promote and advocate for limb preservation. The new alliance aligns with Wounds Canada’s mission to enable health-care providers to improve their practice and ensure the best possible care for persons with wounds or at risk for developing wounds. 

Click here to view the Media Release.

We can’t do this alone; your support can make a difference in wound care in Canada.
Please donate to Wounds Canada today to support our journey toward a common goal:
patients, families and health-care teams working hand in hand to better prevent and care for wounds.