Prevalence and determinants of peripheral neuropathy among older Malaysians: Insights from a community-based cross-sectional study

A BSTRACT Background: Peripheral neuropathy (PN) is a common neurological disease that is highly prevalent worldwide, affecting individuals across different age groups, with a higher prevalence in the older generation. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of PN and its associated factors among the older population in Malaysia. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among older people in seven retail pharmacies in Malaysia. Sociodemographic data and medical history were collected, and PN was assessed using a biothesiometer. Multiple logistic regression analysis was performed to identify factors associated with PN. Results: The prevalence of PN among the older population in Malaysia was 60.9%. By using multiple logistic regression, individuals with diabetes have a significantly higher odds of having PN compared to those without diabetes (AOR = 3.216, 95% CI = 1.763, 5.869, P < 0.001). Every year of increase in age was associated with 1.109 times higher odds of having PN (95% CI: 1.059–1.162, P < 0.001). Men had higher odds of having PN compared to women (AOR = 1.731, 95% CI = 1.058, 2.834). Conclusion: The high prevalence of PN among the older people in Malaysia highlights the need for targeted screening. Significant associations were found between age, male gender, and diabetes with the development of PN. Regular screening of PN among older people is crucial to prevent long-term complications of PN.