Global Leaders Unite in Shijiazhuang China to Combat Diabetes and Prevent Amputation #ActAgainstAmputation

Faculty from the 11th Shijiazhuang International Diabetes Congress

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Global Leaders Unite in Shijiazhuang to Combat Diabetes and Prevent Amputation

Shijiazhuang, China – May 16, 2025 — The 11th Shijiazhuang International Diabetes Conference, held at The Second Hospital of Shijiazhuang, convened more than 1000 clinicians, scientists, and policy leaders from across China and around the world. The conference spotlighted urgent challenges and bold innovations in diabetes care, with a focus on prevention, technology, and limb preservation.

A highlight of the event was a keynote lecture by Professor David G. Armstrong, Distinguished Professor of Surgery and Neurological Surgery at the University of Southern California and Founding President of the American Limb Preservation Society. His address, “The Diabetic Foot and Wound Healing: Looking Back to Look Forward,” explored the evolution of global diabetic foot care and the future of technology-enabled prevention.

“It is a profound honor to stand here in China with colleagues dedicated to preventing avoidable amputations,” said Prof. Armstrong. “We are building bridges—clinical, cultural, and scientific—to help people live longer and walk farther. Shijiazhuang is now firmly on the global map of diabetic limb preservation.”

David G. Armstrong during his keynote address in Shijiazhuang, China

The conference featured parallel sessions on diabetes complications, personalized medicine, and cutting-edge therapeutics. International speakers included:

Professor Marg McGill, AM (Australia), President of the International Diabetes Federation Western Pacific Region, presenting on national foot care models.
Professor Vanessa Nube (University of Sydney), addressing equitable delivery of foot care services.
Professor Carlo Fornaini (Italy), highlighting the role of laser therapy in oral health for people with diabetes.
Professor Dirk Hochlenert (Germany), outlining Germany’s national chronic disease management programs.
Dr. Peter Lin (Canada), discussing the emerging impact of microplastics on peripheral artery disease.

“Professor Armstrong’s work has changed how we think about diabetic complications,” said Professor Zhangrong Xu, Chief Physician at 306 Hospital (PLA). “His presence here not only elevates the academic level of our meeting, but inspires us to reach across borders and disciplines.”

In addition to international participation, the conference highlighted China’s leadership in diabetic research, with sessions covering diabetic kidney disease, digital health, biomechanics, stem cell therapies, and a full track on foot ulcer and vascular care.

“This conference represents more than just science,” said Professor Wuquan Deng, co-chair of the scientific program. “It is about collaboration, mutual respect, and a shared vision to eliminate preventable complications from diabetes. Hosting Professor Armstrong is a milestone for Shijiazhuang’s growing role in global health innovation.”