DETERMINANTS OF PERIPHERAL NEUROPATHY AMONG ADULT DIABETES PATIENTS UNDER FOLLOW UP IN DIABETIC CLINIC OF REFERRAL HOSPITALS OF TIGRAY, NORTHERN ETHIOPIA, 2025

Abstract

Background- Diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN), a common complication of diabetes mellitus, often presents as distal symmetrical polyneuropathy characterized by sensory loss, with approximately 20–30% of patients experiencing neuropathic pain. DPN is a major cause of foot ulceration and Charcot neuropathy. In the study area, no prior research has assessed diabetic peripheral neuropathy among diabetic patients. Objective -The objective of the study was to identify determinants of peripheral neuropathy among diabetic patients at referral hospitals of Tigray, Northern Ethiopia 2025. Methods- A hospital-based unmatched case–control study was conducted among 597 participants, comprising 150 cases and 447 controls with a 1:3 case-to-control ratio. Participants were selected using systematic random sampling. Interviewer administered structured questionnaire was used. The data was collected by kobo tool box version2025.2.3 than exported to Statistical packages for social science version 27 for analysis. Binary logistic regression was used. Then variables at p<0.25 with the outcome variable were selected for multivariate analysis. Odds ratio with 95% confidence level was computed and p-value < 0.05 is describe as a significant association. Ethical clearance was obtained. Result – this study revealed that Age of 60 or greater (AOR=4.28; 95% CI: 2.39,7.68), urban residence (AOR=7.16; 95% CI: 3.26,15.58), Physical inactivity (AOR=4.28; 95% CI2.49,7.37),), long duration of diabetes( AOR= 4.46; 95% CI: 2.32, 8.62), Fasting blood sugar (AOR=2.24; 95% CI: 1.23, 4.10),family history of DM(AOR=2.42; 95% CI: 1.34, 4.42) and Educational level were positively associated whereas Medication type (AOR =0.31; 95% CI: 0.14, 0.79) negatively associated with diabetic peripheral neuropathy. Conclusion and Recommendation- In conclusion factors associated with development of DPN were advanced age, urban residence, low educational level, physical inactivity, long duration of DM, high fasting blood sugar ,family history of DM whereas diabetic patients with oral hypoglycemic agent were less likely to develop DPN. To prevent DPN Health professionals should be provide health education regarding the importance of physical activity and avoiding sedentary life style.