Sign in Subscribe
Elsevier Science Inc.

Diabetic Neuropathy Prevalence in Greenland Reveals Association with Inuit Genetic Ancestry

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

Research on diabetic neuropathy in Greenland, conducted by Copenhagen University Hospital, has shed light on the prevalence of the condition among the population with diabetes and prediabetes. The study, conducted on 447 participants from the Greenland Population Survey 2018, found that diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN) and cardiovascular autonomic neuropathy (CAN) are common among Greenlanders, affecting 28% and 24% of those with diabetes, and 25% and 15% of those with prediabetes, respectively. The study's findings suggest that Inuit genetic ancestry is associated with a higher susceptibility to neuropathy.

Key Takeaways:

  • The prevalence of DPN among people with diabetes in Greenland is 28%, while among those with prediabetes, it is 25%.
  • The prevalence of CAN among people with diabetes in Greenland is 24%, while among those with prediabetes, it is 15%.
  • Inuit genetic ancestry is associated with a 4% higher vibration perception threshold (VPT) and a 51% higher odds of developing CAN.
  • The study found that among 447 participants, 57% were female, and their median age was 61.
  • DPN and CAN are more common among Greenlanders with diabetes and prediabetes, highlighting the need for improved diagnostics and prevention.

Statistics:

  • The study was conducted on 447 participants, with 1/3 having diabetes, a median age of 61, and 57% being female.
  • DPN prevalence was 28% in diabetes and 25% in prediabetes.
  • CAN prevalence was 24% and 15% in diabetes and prediabetes, respectively.
  • The association between Inuit genetic ancestry and neuropathy suggests a predisposition to neuropathy among Inuit, which may be explained by both genetic and lifestyle factors.

Sources:

  • The prevalence of diabetic neuropathy in Greenland and its association with Inuit genetic ancestry - a cross-sectional study. Journal of Diabetes and its Complications, 2025;39(11):109179.
  • Elsevier Science Inc, Ste 800, 230 Park Ave, New York, NY 10169, USA. (Elsevier - www.elsevier.com; Journal of Diabetes and its Complications - www.journals.elsevier.com/journal-of-diabetes-and-its-complications/)
  • Copenhagen University Hospital - Steno Diabetes Center Copenhagen, Borgmester Ib Juuls Vej 83, 2730, Herlev, Denmark.

Read more