Objective
Diabetic polyneuropathy and painful diabetic polyneuropathy are frequent in early type 2 diabetes, associated with modifiable risk factors, and have a major impact on mental health. This cross-sectional study aimed to estimate the prevalence of diabetic peripheral neuropathy and painful diabetic peripheral neuropathy, identify important risk factors, and determine the association with mental health in recently diagnosed type 2 diabetes subjects.
Conclusions
Female sex, age, diabetes duration, body mass index, and smoking were associated with possible diabetic peripheral neuropathy, whereas only smoking showed a clear association with possible painful diabetic peripheral neuropathy. Possible diabetic peripheral neuropathy and painful diabetic peripheral neuropathy were independently and additively associated with lower quality of life, poorer sleep, and symptoms of depression and anxiety. Possible diabetic peripheral neuropathy itself had greater impact on mental health than neuropathic pain. This large study emphasizes the importance of careful screening for diabetic peripheral neuropathy and pain early in the course of type 2 diabetes.