New action to address the record number of diabetes-related amputations

Lower limb amputations have doubled in the past decade, with Maori and Pasifika being disproportionately affected.

Otago University has signed a new research agreement with Northland-based Ngati Hine Health Trust - one of the country's largest Maori health providers - to try to improve diabetes care for Maori.

Professor of Medicine Jim Mann says they're trying to bring the numbers down.

He suggests earlier screenings and a focus on foot care could help prevent large numbers of amputations.