Demographic characteristics of individuals with diabetes mellitus and peripheral neuropathy.

BACKGROUND

Studies have established a positive association between peripheral neuropathy and diabetes mellitus. The purpose of the present investigation is to determine the predictor variables for demographic characteristics of individuals with diabetes mellitus and peripheral neuropathy.

METHODS

Frequency and χ2 statistic analyses were conducted on the data to determine significance of predictor variables.

RESULTS

Among individuals with and without diabetes mellitus, men are more at risk to develop complications related to peripheral neuropathy, such as foot insensate areas and numbness in extremities. Diabetic individuals older than 61 years are at higher risk than other age groups. Among diabetic patients with peripheral neuropathy, women are more likely to have emotional disorders such as panic, anxiety disorder, and depression than men of the same age or younger.

CONCLUSIONS

Predictor variables will assist clinicians in better diagnosing peripheral neuropathy, contributing to more effective treatments and shortening of healing time. Diagnostic measures to be taken into consideration include race, age, education, marital status, duration of diabetes mellitus, numbness in hands or feet, participation in moderate physical activity, and use of tobacco.