Between 60-70% of those with diabetes have PN.
Diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN) is the most common type of PN. Today, it is estimated that 60-70% of diabetics have DPN
Under managed DPN is the number one cause of non-traumatic lower limb amputations in the United States.
30-40% of cancer patients are affected by PN.
30-40% of all cancer patients have Chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN). CIPN is caused by chemotherapy drugs used in cancer treatments. Chemotherapy is hardest on the nervous system due to the fact the nerve cells are more sensitive than other cells. Sensory nerves are at an increased risk to chemotherapy-associated damage compared to motor nerves.
The onsets and resolution of symptoms is variable. Some drugs may cause symptoms during or immediately after the first dose and some have a delayed onset of symptoms, up to several weeks, months, or even years, after the last dose.
23% of patients have PN of unknown origin.
Idiopathic peripheral neuropathy has no identifiable known cause and therefore is considered the primary disease. If a cause is detected, then the neuropathy is secondary to that and not idiopathic.
Idiopathic peripheral neuropathies occur typically in middle-aged and elderly individuals. It’s estimated that 23% of all neuropathy patients are diagnosed with idiopathic neuropathy.
1/3 of HIV/AIDS suffer from PN.
Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) or AIDS are often accompanied by the development of peripheral neuropathic conditions. Of all HIV/AIDs patients, 33% have PN.
Other autoimmune disorders can include but not limited to:
A job or hobby that puts stress on one nerve for long periods of time increases the chances for development of peripheral neuropathy. Playing certain sports or musical instruments and/or using vibrating power tools even crutches can put pressure on peripheral nerves and cause nerve irritation and damage.
Excessive drinking of alcohol can affect the nervous system, causing numbness of the hands and feet.
A lack of certain vitamins, especially B-1 (thiamin) and B-12 makes peripheral neuropathy more likely. Pernicious anemia, which occurs when the body cannot absorb B-12 properly, often leads to peripheral neuropathy. Learn more
Medical conditions, including certain types of kidney disease and liver disease, or those with family history of genetic diseases that produce peripheral neuropathic pain symptoms and conditions put an individual at risk of developing peripheral nerve damage. Learn more
Exposure to some toxic substances can make one susceptible to peripheral nerve damage. These substances include heavy metals, such as lead, mercury, arsenic and organic solvents; and certain medications, such as those used to treat cancer or AIDS.
