Estimating the annual cost burden of diabetic peripheral neuropathy in the United States

Area of Science:

• Endocrinology and Metabolism
• Health Economics
• Public Health

Background:

• Diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN) is a prevalent complication of diabetes mellitus.
• The incidence of diabetes and DPN has significantly increased in the United States.
• Quantifying the economic impact of DPN is crucial for public health resource allocation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To estimate the annual cost burden of diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN) in the United States.
• To provide a quantitative analysis of the financial impact of DPN.

Main Methods:

• A cost-of-illness (COI) burden model was developed to assess DPN costs.
• Literature review was conducted to gather relevant epidemiologic and economic data.
• One-way sensitivity analyses were performed to evaluate the impact of parameter variability.

Main Results:

• An estimated 13,209,600 individuals in the U.S. have DPN.
• The total annual cost burden of DPN in the U.S. is approximately $45.9 billion.
• DPN-specific care accounted for $30.9 billion, while DPN complications (foot ulcers, amputations) cost $15.1 billion.

Conclusions:

• Diabetic peripheral neuropathy represents a substantial and growing economic burden.
• The findings underscore the need for effective diabetes and DPN management strategies.
• Continued increase in diabetes prevalence suggests a rising future cost associated with DPN.