STHS TV Healthy Living: Limb Loss and Amputation Prevention

HARLINGEN, Texas (ValleyCentral) — In October, South Texas Health System focuses on limb loss and amputation prevention.

Tom Castaneda with STHS said the Rio Grande Valley is a hotbed for diabetes and vascular diseases like peripheral artery disease. If left untreated can lead to serious health complications, including loss of a limb.

"When you are dealing with conditions like diabetes, if you aren't treating them, it's really important to make sure that you are doing everything you can to prevent limb loss. Limb loss can lead to serious issues, including your mortality rate. Your life expectancy is three years shorter," said Castañeda.

In Sunday's episode of South Texas Health System TV, Castaneda discusses with the medical director of the South Texas Health System Wound Healing Center to learn more about the common symptoms, risk factors, who is at great risk, and prevention.

Tune in Sunday, Oct. 26, at 9 a.m. on NBC 23.