Prevalence and factors associated with extremity amputation, Cali, 1985

Abstract

The amputation of an extremity is a skeletal muscle deficiency that has increased in incidence due to industrialization in the world. In a prevalence study of physical limitations in the district of Cali, the maximum number estimated in July 1985 was 4977 amputees. The results of the present study are shown by sex and age and demonstrate the differentials by age with a higher concentration among the male population. It is important to point out that physical limitations are more prevalent in the lower classes and that the origin of the limitations is distributed as follows: 13% congenital and 87% acquired. The problem has been discussed, including medical attention as well as familiar, social, and recreational aspects, and some suggestions have been given for it to be confronted.