Epidemiology of Peripheral Neuropathy and Lower Extremity Disease in Diabetes

• Published in: Current diabetes reports 2019-10, Vol.19 (10), p.86-8, Article 86
• Main Authors: Hicks, Caitlin W., Selvin, Elizabeth
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Amputation, Surgical; Cost of Illness; Diabetes; Diabetic Foot - diagnosis; Diabetic Foot - economics; Diabetic Foot - epidemiology; Diabetic Foot - therapy; Diabetic Neuropathies - diagnosis; Diabetic Neuropathies - economics; Diabetic Neuropathies - epidemiology; Diabetic Neuropathies - therapy; Diabetic neuropathy; Epidemiology; Foot diseases; Humans; Lower Extremity - surgery; Mass Screening; Medicine; Medicine & Public Health; Microvascular Complications—Neuropathy (R Pop-Busui; Peripheral neuropathy; Risk Factors; Section Editor; Topical Collection on Microvascular Complications—Neuropathy
• ISSN: 1534-4827; 1539-0829; 1539-0829
• DOI: 10.1007/s11892-019-1212-8

Purpose of Review Diabetic peripheral neuropathy eventually affects nearly 50% of adults with diabetes during their lifetime and is associated with substantial morbidity including pain, foot ulcers, and lower limb amputation. This review summarizes the epidemiology, risk factors, and management of diabetic peripheral neuropathy and related lower extremity complications. Recent Findings The prevalence of peripheral neuropathy is estimated to be between 6 and 51% among adults with diabetes depending on age, duration of diabetes, glucose control, and type 1 versus type 2 diabetes. The clinical manifestations are variable, ranging from asymptomatic to painful neuropathic symptoms. Because of the risk of foot ulcer (25%) and amputation associated with diabetic peripheral neuropathy, aggressive screening and treatment in the form of glycemic control, regular foot exams, and pain management are important. There is an emerging focus on lifestyle interventions including weight loss and physical activity as well. Summary The American Diabetes Association has issued multiple recommendation statements pertaining to diabetic neuropathies and the care of the diabetic foot. Given that approximately 50% of adults with diabetes will be affected by peripheral neuropathy in their lifetime, more diligent screening and management are important to reduce the complications and health care burden associated with the disease.