Black Limbs Matter

African Americans experience disproportionately high amputation rates.

Saving Black Limbs By Any Means Necessary

About

Black Limbs Matter

African Americans experience 3-5 times the amputation rate compared to other ethnic groups. Black patients are significantly more likely to receive an amputation than a salvage procedure when presenting with significant peripheral vascular diseases. The COVID-19 pandemic has been a driving force in the amputation epidemic. Also, recent studies have shown that Black patients have better outcomes and fewer amputations when treated by Black healthcare providers.
Black Limbs Matter is a national group of vascular surgeons and podiatric surgeons who've come together for a single unified cause; to reduce the amputation rate among African Americans particularly in underserved and under-resourced communities.

Founded by Dr. Bill J. Releford, D.P.M., Black Limbs Matter will conduct a number of national PAD screening campaigns using remote vitals monitoring systems, artificial intelligence as well as the BlackDoctor247 platform. The goal is to reach 100,000 Black Americans by 2025.

Black Limbs Matter,
Diabetes and PAD can lead to amputation.

The majority of amputations that occur are preventable. Nearly 75% of amputations could be prevented by early detection of PAD ( peripheral artery disease) and proper education. The following are several patient-centered risk factors.

Uncontrolled Diabetes

Diabetes management is the single best way to avoid and prevent amputation. An elevated HbA1c will surely lead to a higher risk of amputation.

PAD ( Poor Circulation)

Undetected PAD is the number one factor that can lead to amputation. Early intervention is critical.

High Blood Pressure

Uncontrolled high-blood pressure can prematurely cause the arteries to harden and thereby decreasing the blood flow to various organs including feet and legs.

Overweight and Obesity

Inactivity and obesity can increase the risk of developing diabetes as well as foot and leg amputation.

High Cholesterol

High cholesterol can significantly place you a risk of developing PAD, the number one cause of amputation.

Smoking

Smoking in conjunction with having diabetes, can accelerate PAD. Having diabetes can make it difficult to detect PAD.

EVERY 3 MINUTES

a Black person experiences an amputation in the U.S.

Are you or a loved one at risk of amputation?

This is what you need to know
Many Blacks recommended for amputation are never offered a non-invasive vascular exam to check the status of the patients circulation. Leg cramps at night could mean you are at risk. Make sure to request a circulation test from your provider.
Non-healing wounds can lead to a life-threatening medical emergency. Always keep wound care appointments. Always take pictures of your wound.
Nutrition plays a major role in reducing the risk of an amputation. Fresh fruits and vegetables can promote wound healing, reduce artery clogging cholesterol and lower high blood pressure.
If you smoke, you need to stop immediately! Smoking accelerates blockages in your arteries making it difficult for wounds to heal.

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It's our mission to help people reduce their poverty by a huge number of helpful campaigns to make it essential
o1

For
Providers

The Black Limbs Matter  is seeking vascular specialist as podiatric surgeons to join the team.
O2

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Partnerships

We are seeking viable partnerships with fraternities, sororities, academic institutions as well as corporate entities.
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Barbershops

The Black Limbs Matter is seeking to partner with salons and barbershops across the country.

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