Ipswich Touch Test as a Screening Tool for Diabetic Sensory Neuropathy Based on the Duration of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus

Abstract

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a chronic disease that can lead to diabetic sensory neuropathy (DSN), increasing the risk of foot ulcers and amputation. This study aimed to analyze the relationship between the duration of T2DM and diabetic sensory neuropathy screening results. A quantitative correlational study with a cross-sectional design was conducted among 40 patients with T2DM selected through consecutive sampling from 51 eligible patients. T2DM duration was obtained through structured interviews and/or medical records, whereas DSN was assessed using the Ipswich Touch Test (IpTT). Spearman's rho correlation test showed a significant relationship between the duration of T2DM and DSN (p = 0.003; r = 0.455). A longer duration of T2DM was associated with a higher likelihood of diabetic sensory neuropathy. The IpTT may serve as a simple screening method for diabetic sensory neuropathy in primary healthcare settings.