AimsDiabetic neuropathy is a frequent complication of type 2 diabetes, yet the relationship between cardiovascular risk factor control and neuropathy remains unclear.We investigated the association between the number of risk factors within guideline-recommended targets and neuropathy in type 2 diabetes. MethodsIn The Maastricht Study, neuropathy was assessed in 3,764 participants (845 with type 2 diabetes; 2,919 without diabetes) using measures of autonomic, sensory, peripheral nerve function, and neuropathic pain.Participants were categorized by the number of eight risk factors within target (HbA1c, blood pressure, BMI, lipids, albuminuria, smoking, physical activity, and diet).Logistic regression estimated odds of neuropathy across strata of risk factors within target. ResultsNeuropathy prevalence was 7.8% in individuals with type 2 diabetes and 1.3% in those without diabetes.More risk factors on target were associated with lower odds of neuropathy.Compared with individuals with normal glucose metabolism, adjusted odds ratios were 14.86 (95% CI 7.67-28.82)for 0-2, 3.18 (95% CI 2.01-5.04)for 3-5 and 1.07 (95% CI 0.25-4.56)for 6-8 risk factors on target. ConclusionsAchieving 6 risk factors on target was associated with neuropathy prevalence similar to individuals without diabetes, suggesting comprehensive risk factor control may help prevent neuropathy.
Okoro et al. (2026) studied this question.