Knowledge and Symptom Burden of Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy and Associated Demographic and Clinical Predictors in Eastern Province, Saudi Arabia

Abstract

Background: Diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN) is one of the most common complications of diabetes and contributes substantially to disability and reduced quality of life. However, limited evidence from Saudi Arabia has simultaneously examined patients’ knowledge of DPN and their symptom burden. Therefore, this study aimed to assess DPN knowledge, symptom burden, and associated predictors among patients with diabetes in Eastern Saudi Arabia. Objective: This study aimed to assess patients’ knowledge of peripheral neuropathy (PN) and their symptom burden and to identify associated demographic and clinical predictors. Methods: A cross-sectional analytical study was conducted among 245 adult patients with diabetes mellitus (Type 1, Type 2, and gestational diabetes) in the Eastern Region of Saudi Arabia. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire assessing sociodemographic and clinical characteristics, self-reported PN symptoms, and knowledge of PN. Symptom burden was quantified using a symptom checklist, with high burden defined as ≥4 symptoms. Knowledge scores were calculated and dichotomised using the median. Results: Participants reported a considerable burden of self-reported neuropathic symptoms, with numbness, pain during walking, and weakness being the most common, while only 38% reported a formal diagnosis of PN. Overall knowledge of PN was relatively high, particularly regarding common symptoms and preventive measures, although gaps remained in awareness of subtle sensory deficits and treatment options. Regular self-monitoring of blood glucose (SMBG) was independently associated with good PN knowledge (OR = 2.86, p < 0.001) and lower odds of high symptom burden (OR = 0.41, p = 0.001). Better glycaemic control was also associated with reduced symptom burden. Conclusions: Peripheral neuropathy symptom burden was associated with glycaemic control and self-management behaviours. The findings highlight the potential importance of routine symptom screening, glycaemic monitoring, and patient-centred education in diabetes care.