TITLE:
Associated Factors of Distal and Symmetric Polyneuropathy (DSPN) in Diabetic Subjects Consulting at Yopougon Attie General Hospital from November 2024 to April 2025
AUTHORS:
Pierre Koffi Dago, Fagnan Levy Gouh, Patrick Hermann Gnahoré, Emma Attiégoua, Yao Anselme N’guessan, Innocent Bouadi, Adelaide Hué, Franck Kouassi, Assita Yao, Jocelyne Danho, Jocelyne Lecadou, Kevin Acho, Mory Traoré, Jacko Abodo, Seydou Koné
KEYWORDS:
Diabetes, Distal Symmetric Polyneuropathy, Predictive Factors, Abidjan
JOURNAL NAME:
Open Journal of Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases,
Vol.16 No.7,
July
20,
2026
ABSTRACT: Introduction: Distal symmetric polyneuropathy (DSPN) is one of the most common chronic complications of diabetes mellitus and is associated with neuropathic pain, sensory impairment, and reduced quality of life. Identifying its predictive factors is essential for early screening and improved management of diabetic patients. Methods: This was a descriptive and analytical cross-sectional study conducted from November 2024 to April 2025 at the Yopougon Attié General Hospital. A total of 267 patients with type 1 and type 2 diabetes were included. The diagnosis of DSPN was based on the DN4 and MNSI scores. Statistical analysis included bivariate analysis followed by multivariate logistic regression to identify independent predictive factors. Results: The mean age was 55.78 ± 13.15 years, with a male-to-female ratio of 0.38. The prevalence of distal symmetric polyneuropathy was 46.82%. In multivariate analysis, age over 50 years, lack of regular physical activity, diabetic retinopathy, diabetes duration greater than 10 years, and poor glycemic control were identified as independent predictive factors of distal symmetric polyneuropathy. Conclusion: Distal symmetric polyneuropathy is frequent among diabetic patients followed at the Yopougon Attié General Hospital. Identifying its predictive factors highlights the importance of early screening, optimal glycemic control, and comprehensive management to reduce diabetes-related complications.