Awareness regarding diabetic peripheral neuropathy and its risk factors among diabetics in Muhayil City, Saudi Arabia

Objectives: To assess the level of awareness regarding diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN) and its risk factors among diabetics in Muhayil City, Aseer Region, Saudi Arabia. Subjects and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted from June to November 2020 in primary health care centers, Muhayil City, Saudi Arabia. Data were collected using an Arabic Language interview questionnaire, which included patient's demographics, in addition to awareness and knowledge items about DPN and its risk factors. Results: This study included 367 diabetic patients. Their mean +/- SD age was 59 +/- 12 years. The mean +/- SD of diabetes duration was 8 +/- 5 years. Regarding participants' awareness grades about diabetes and its risk factors. 4.1%, 18.5%, and 77.4% had excellent, acceptable, and poor awareness levels, respectively. Prevalence of DPN was 10.1% based on the history part of the Michigan neuropathy screening instrument, and 12.3% based on the examination part of the Michigan neuropathy screening instrument. Conclusions: Type 2 diabetic patients in Muhayil City have poor awareness about DPN and its risk factors. However, prevalence of DPN among them is relatively low.