A real-world multicenter cross-sectional observational study to assess the clinical profile of peripheral neuropathy in patients with diabetes

Background There are limited studies on the prevalence of diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN) and related foot deformities in patients with T2DM from India. Aim To investigate the prevalence, characteristics, and risk factors for foot deformities in Asian-Indian individuals with T2DM and DPN. Methods We analyzed 4290 patients (32.3% female, 67.7% male, mean age 51.1 +/- 9.3 years) using a cross-sectional, retrospective observational method, focusing on signs and symptoms of foot complications and neuropathy. Results Dry Skin (44%), infection (19.7%), and ingrown toenails (16.6%) were the foremost prevalent foot health conditions. The most common neuropathic symptoms were burning (35.4%), muscle cramps (31.5%), and loss of sensation (26.6%). Multivariable logistic regression analysis identified nephropathy (OR 3.96 [95% CI: 3.02-5.20]), retinopathy (OR 3.85 [95% CI: 2.72-5.48]), coronary disease (OR 3.48 [95% CI: 2.42-5.04]), COVID-19 history (OR 2.37 [95% CI: 1.73-3.26]), smoking (OR 2.13 [95% CI: 1.56-2.91]), hypertension (OR 2.10 [95% CI: 1.63-2.73]), dyslipidemia (OR 2.09 [95% CI: 1.62-2.69]), alcohol use (OR 1.57 [95% CI: 1.14-2.15]), and high HbA1c (OR 1.29 [95% CI: 1.16-1.42]) as significant predictors (p < 0.001) of increased risk for multiple foot health complications. Diabetes duration showed no significant correlation with increased risk for multiple foot complications. Conclusion This study revealed a significant incidence of foot deformities and neuropathic symptoms in Indian T2DM patients, influenced by various lifestyle and medical factors. The lack of correlation between diabetes duration and foot complications in the present study highlights the need for enhanced diabetes management and early detection strategies in India.