Final answer:
Foot amputation is a major cause of disability among people with diabetes due to nerve damage and poor blood circulation resulting from uncontrolled blood glucose levels.
Step-by-step explanation:
A major cause of disability among people with diabetes is foot amputation. This serious complication is primarily due to damage to small blood vessels caused by inadequately controlled blood glucose levels, which can result in nerve damage (diabetic neuropathy), leading to a loss of sensation in the limbs, particularly the feet. As a consequence, minor injuries can go unnoticed and become infected, sometimes necessitating amputation to prevent further infection or necrosis.
Prevention of such complications involves managing diabetes with a healthy diet, regular exercise, maintaining a normal body weight, and when necessary, injections of insulin. Keeping blood glucose levels within a target range can reduce the risk of nerve damage and circulation problems, thereby lessening the likelihood of foot ulcers and potential amputations.