Predictors of Peripheral Neuropathy Among Persons with Diabetes Mellitus: A Multicenter Cross-Sectional Study

Area of Science:

• Endocrinology
• Neurology
• Public Health

Background:

• Diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN) is a common complication of diabetes mellitus (DM), affecting approximately 50% of adults with DM.
• DPN leads to significant morbidities, including pain, foot ulcers, amputations, and depression, highlighting the need for preventive strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify significant predictors of diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN) in individuals with diabetes mellitus (DM).
• To inform early preventive strategies aimed at reducing DPN-related morbidities.

Main Methods:

• A cohort of 1,040 individuals with DM was enrolled.
• Data collected included medical history, clinical examinations, and laboratory investigations.
• Multiple logistic regression analysis was employed to determine DPN predictors, with statistical significance set at P ≤ .05.

Main Results:

• Significant predictors of DPN included advanced age, longer DM duration, female sex, height, generalized and central obesity, and history of systemic hypertension.
• Poor control of systolic and diastolic blood pressure, fasting plasma glucose, 2-hour postprandial glucose (2HrPP), and glycated hemoglobin were also significant predictors.
• Peripheral artery disease was identified as a predictor, while antidiabetics, antihypertensives, statins, and antiplatelets emerged as negative predictors.

Conclusions:

• Key predictors of DPN encompass demographic factors (age, sex, height), diabetes-related factors (duration, poor glycemic control), comorbidities (hypertension, peripheral artery disease), and obesity.
• Certain medications, including antidiabetics, antihypertensives, statins, and antiplatelets, may have a protective role against DPN.
• Identifying these predictors is crucial for developing targeted interventions to prevent or delay the onset and progression of DPN.