Preventing Amputation: A Doctor’s Guide for Diabetes Patients

July 9, 2026

Dr. Estelle Everett, a UCLA endocrinology specialist, emphasizes that most diabetes-related amputations are preventable through early detection, consistent care, and patient education. Her research focus stems from witnessing her sister's struggles with Type 1 diabetes and encountering racial disparities in access to advanced diabetes technologies like continuous glucose monitors and insulin pumps. Early warning signs of diabetic complications include numbness, tingling, poor circulation, and non-healing wounds, while amputation typically represents the final stage of untreated diabetic foot disease.

Who is affected

Diabetes patients, particularly those at risk for amputations
Black Californians and minority patients experiencing healthcare disparities
People from lower-income backgrounds
Dr. Everett's younger sister (who has Type 1 diabetes)
Patients who distrust the healthcare system
People with undiagnosed diabetes who have developed complications

What action is being taken

Dr. Everett is conducting research focused on improving access to diabetes technology for underserved populations
Continuous glucose monitors (CGMs) are being used to track blood sugar levels in real time
Healthcare providers are using CGMs to obtain clearer pictures of patients' blood sugar patterns

Why it matters

This matters because diabetes-related amputations are largely preventable with proper care, yet racial and socioeconomic disparities create barriers to accessing life-saving technologies and treatments. Black and lower-income patients are less likely to be offered advanced diabetes management tools, leading to worse health outcomes. Early intervention, routine screenings, and proper diabetes management can significantly reduce the risk of severe complications including kidney failure and amputations, yet misconceptions about medications and systemic distrust in healthcare prevent many people from receiving necessary treatment.

What's next

No explicit next steps stated in the article

Read full article from source: The San Diego Voice & Viewpoint