National mortality trends in polyneuropathies and other disorders of the peripheral nervous system in the United States, 1999-2023: a CDC WONDER database analysis.

BACKGROUND

Peripheral neuropathies and other disorders of the peripheral nervous system carry a higher mortality risk due to respiratory failure, autonomic instability, and infections. The prevalence increases with age and due to other comorbid conditions. This study evaluates mortality trends in polyneuropathies and other disorders of the peripheral nervous system in the United States from 1999 to 2023.

METHODS

This study analyzed publicly available data from the CDC WONDER database (1999 to 2023) using ICD-10 codes for polyneuropathy and other disorders of the peripheral nervous system (G60-G64). Join point regression was used to compute annual percent changes and 95% CIs.

RESULTS

70,080 deaths were reported among individuals aged ≥ 55 years. Most deaths occurred at decedents’ homes (33.0%). AAMR increased from 3.18 in 1999 to 4.96 in 2023 (AAPC: 2.31%; 95% CI: 1.89–2.74%). Males maintained consistently higher AAMR than females. The greatest average CMR was demonstrated by those aged 76–85 + years (average CMR: 8.79 per 100,000 over the study period). Most deaths were observed in NH White individuals (88.5%), while Hispanic or Latino individuals had the lowest deaths (3.90%). The West exhibited the highest AAMR (4.20), and the lowest was observed in the Northeast (2.63). Substantial disparities were observed between metropolitan and non-metropolitan areas and across various states.

CONCLUSION

Polyneuropathy related mortality has demonstrated an upward trend among adults aged ≥ 55 years from 1999 to 2023. significant inconsistencies persist with higher mortality among older adults, males, non-Hispanic white individuals, with regional disparities favoring west. This highlights the necessity of focused public health initiatives and enhanced care accessibility for all populations and areas that are at risk.