and of those, 3.2 million are African-Americans. Considered high risk for type 2 diabetes, African-Americans are almost three times more likely to suffer from lower-limb amputations as their Caucasian counterparts. For this reason, the California Podiatric Medical Association (CPMA) is urging African-Americans to take off their shoes and socks at every doctor’s visit to check the feet for signs and symptoms of the disease as part of its “Diabetes is a Family Affair” (DIAFA) campaign. Focusing on the impact that the disease can have on the entire family, CPMA will launch a statewide effort educating consumers that something as simple as a foot exam can reveal the first warning signs of serious diseases, such as diabetes and maybe even save a limb.

“Because diabetes can run in the family, it’s important that families discuss the disease and its warning signs,” said Dr. Ernest Hook, CPMA President. “Family members can also ensure a person with diabetes maintains a proper diet, increases exercise, performs daily foot inspections and keeps a positive outlook.”

The number of people that have diabetes continues to grow. Over 6 million people are afflicted with the disease and don’t even know they have it! Among African-Americans, 13 percent of the population has diabetes. An early diagnosis is critical to help control this epidemic. The warning signs of the disease can often appear first in the feet. Check your feet regularly for the following diabetes signs and symptoms:

Numbness
Redness
Tingling sensations
Burning sensations
Loss of hair
Cuts and scrapes that are slow to heal

If any of these symptoms are present, CPMA recommends visiting a podiatric physician immediately. Podiatric Physicians are foot and ankle specialist and are more readily able to detect abnormalities in the foot that may be a precursor to systemic diseases like diabetes.

Diabetes is not a disease to face alone. Talk with your family members to learn about their history with the disease. By working together, you can stay a step ahead of diabetes.

For more information about Diabetes is a Family Affair, visit www.podiatrists.org or call 800-794-8988

The California Podiatric Medical Association (CPMA) is the state’s leading professional medical organization for foot and ankle specialists and represents more than 1000 California doctors of podiatric medicine (DPMs). Since 1912 CPMA has served the people of California by promoting the science and art of podiatric medicine, protecting the public health, and elevating the standards of medical education.