Pakistan has launched a 24/7 diabetic foot helpline to help people with diabetes receive timely guidance and medical referrals for foot wounds, ulcers, infections and other warning signs that can lead to serious complications and amputation.
The helpline, 0330-6666774, was launched by the Baqai Institute of Diabetology and Endocrinology (BIDE) during the International Conference on Diabetes & Diabetic Foot 2026, which concluded in Karachi. The initiative aims to help patients seek professional advice before relatively minor foot problems progress into severe infections or limb-threatening complications.
Experts at the conference warned that delayed treatment is contributing to a major burden of diabetes-related amputations in Pakistan. They estimated that nearly 300,000 diabetes-related amputations occur annually, equivalent to around 34 every hour. Officials stressed that these figures were presented as an estimate rather than being based on a formal national amputation registry.
BIDE Director Prof Zahid Miyan said more than three million people in Pakistan are living with diabetes-related foot wounds. He noted that many amputations could potentially be prevented if patients receive early advice, appropriate referral and treatment before wounds or infections become advanced.
Diabetic foot complications can begin with what appears to be a small cut, blister or wound. However, nerve damage associated with diabetes can reduce sensation in the feet, meaning patients may not notice injuries until they become infected or difficult to treat.
Experts said around 18% of people with diabetes develop foot ulcers, while diabetic peripheral neuropathy affects about 43.2% of Pakistani patients with diabetes. Reduced sensation can allow minor injuries to progress without the patient realising the seriousness of the problem.
The conference also highlighted the serious health consequences associated with diabetic foot disease. Experts reported that nearly 30% of patients with diabetic foot ulcers die within five years, while mortality rises further among patients who undergo amputations.
Alongside the helpline, BIDE announced Pakistan’s first two-year postgraduate diploma in diabetic foot care, with the first batch scheduled to begin in January 2027. The programme will train healthcare professionals in prevention, early detection and treatment of diabetic foot disease, with the goal of reducing avoidable amputations.
Technology was another focus of the conference. Specialists presented an AI-enabled digital diabetic foot clinic that could allow patients to upload photographs of wounds for AI-assisted detection, measurement and risk assessment before being referred for specialist care.
Health experts stressed that early detection, proper foot care, patient education and rapid medical intervention are essential for preventing serious diabetic foot complications. The new helpline is intended to provide patients with a quicker route to advice and appropriate treatment when warning signs first appear.
