MORRISTOWN, N.J.– Averitas Pharma, Inc., the U.S. subsidiary of Grünenthal, with advisory support from The Foundation for Peripheral Neuropathy (FPN) today revealed the findings from a national patient survey which exposes the stark reality of life with neuropathic pain associated with diabetic peripheral neuropathy of the feet, better known as diabetic nerve pain.
“With more than half of patients with diabetes having some form of nerve damage, this progressive and debilitating complication significantly impacts the daily lives of millions of Americans,” said Dr. Rodica Pop-Busui, MD, PhD, Professor of Internal Medicine, Metabolism, Endocrinology and Diabetes and Vice Chair Clinical Research, Department of Internal Medicine at the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor. “It’s imperative that we understand the different attitudes and struggles experienced by patients as they navigate this journey so we can better support them and explore appropriate pain management options in the future.”
Survey results reveal 90% of respondents have had to make lifestyle changes due to their diabetic nerve foot pain. Overall, respondents have indicated they need to rest more often and reduce physical activity as a result of their pain. Two thirds of the survey respondents reported needing a caregiver, and of those, 43% mentioned their spouse as their primary caregiver. Simple everyday tasks and activities that require prolonged periods of standing, such as walking and food preparation, are the activities reported requiring the most assistance from a caregiver.6
“Better treatments and freedom from pain are the overriding priorities patients with diabetic nerve pain hope for when thinking about the future,” said Lindsay Colbert, Executive Director of Foundation for Peripheral Neuropathy. “The U.S. represents a significant portion of the world’s neuropathic pain patient population statistic and is expected to grow over the next decade. This detailed study into life with diabetic foot pain not only exposes the challenges patients face every day, but also highlights the major need for more and better treatment options.”
Results from the survey also indicated 71% of patients desire change and are seeking better treatments and a future with less pain, while 58% of patients are not satisfied with the current treatment plan for their diabetic nerve foot pain.6
“The harsh realities of diabetic nerve pain are leaving a large number of patients feeling disabled and hindered from completing daily tasks,” said Marv Kelly, General Manager, Grünenthal. “The findings of this survey reinforce our commitment to identifying appropriate pain management treatments in order to potentially improve the lives of patients.”
