Peripheral neuropathy linked to risk of dying, even in absence of diabetes

A surprisingly high proportion of the population has the condition, US researchers say

Peripheral neuropathy in adults with or without diabetes can increase the risk of death by more than 30%, according to findings from a study based on real-world patient data.

The observational research suggests that decreased sensation in the foot may be an important yet under-recognised risk factor for both cardiovascular and all-cause mortality, the US authors say.