Prevalence of Neuropathy in Type 2 Diabetic Patients Attending a Diabetes Centre in South India

Abstract

Objective : The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence and risk factors for neuropathy among South Indian type 2 diabetic patients attending a diabetes centre. Methods : One thousand consecutive type 2 diabetic patients attending a diabetes centre in South India were recruited for the study. Biothesiometry studies were performed by a single observer using a biothesiometer. Neuropathy was diagnosed if the vibratory threshold of the great toe exceeded twenty five. Results : Overall, 19.1% of the patients had evidence of neuropathy. The prevalence of neuropathy increased with increase in age (p < 0.001) and duration of diabetes (p < 0.001). Multiple logistic regression analysis revealed age (OR-3.2, 95% confidence interval - 2.7-4.1, p < 0.001) and duration of diabetes (OR - 1.4, 95% confidence interval - 1.2-6.4, p = 0.001) as the risk factors for neuropathy. Conclusion : The overall prevalence of neuropathy in this South Indian type 2 diabetic subjects is 19.1% and age and duration of diabetes are the risk factors for neuropathy. (J Assoc Physicians India 2002;50:546-550)