Procter and Gamble Philippines, in collaboration with P&G Health, recently held #KNOWTHESIGNS Scientific Forum on Peripheral Neuropathy during World Diabetes Day. PN is a condition affecting over 50 million people globally.

Highlight of the forum was the unveiling of the NENOIN Study results, which shed light on the efficacy of a fixed dose combination of B vitamins (B1, B6 and B12) in significantly improving nerve function. The study's findings provide a crucial roadmap for managing PN, offering tangible hope for millions globally.

Challenges

PN poses significant challenges to those with diabetes and pre-diabetes. Numbness, tingling and burning sensations in the hands and feet are common symptoms, impacting the quality of life for individuals with this condition.

With Diabetes Mellitus Type 2 being the leading cause of PN, the increasing prevalence of PN is closely linked to the rise in the number of diabetic patients. Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy is the result of damage to the nerves impacting the quality of life of people as they are not able to go about their daily lives as comfortably. Symptoms of PN include numbness, tingling, prickling and burning sensations in the hands and feet. Vitamin B deficiency and polymedication are other high-risk factors along with diabetes, leading to peripheral nerve damage. Published studies across different countries confirm that up to 80 percent of patients with PN remain undiagnosed and untreated.

Comprehensive approach

P&G Health addresses the multifaceted nature of PN by introducing holistic solutions to provide relief and improve quality of life to individuals dealing with the daily struggles of PN.

1. Vitamin B supplementation. Besides diabetes mellitus, aging, alcoholism and B vitamins deficiencies are other high-risk factors leading to peripheral nerve damage. Vitamins B1, B6 and B12 play essential roles in the maintenance of a healthy nervous system. Vitamin B1 provides energy to the nerves, vitamin B6 helps with signal transmission in nerves, while vitamin B12 helps with neuronal regeneration. Combination of vitamin B1, B6 and B12 that is scientifically proven to repair nerve damage, restore nerve function and regenerate nerves to relieve neuropathy symptoms.

2. Pharmacist engagement. Acknowledging the integral role of pharmacists in patient care, P&G advocates for their active involvement. By providing guidance on lifestyle modifications and recommending over-the-counter treatments, pharmacists play a vital role in supporting individuals with PN. A speaker at the forum, Dr. Kenny P. Merin (pharmacist and assistant vice president of Academics & Research of Lyceum of the Philippines University Davao) shared, "Pharmacists are an integral part of the healthcare team and can provide valuable support to patients with PN, yet often we are underutilized. Pharmacists are often the first point of contact and can drive early awareness of patient's condition, offer guidance on lifestyle modifications and help optimize medication regimens."

3. AI-Powered Awareness. P&G's ongoing #KnowtheSigns campaign leverages Artificial Intelligence to make the often-invisible conditions of PN and vitamin B deficiency more visible and relatable to consumers. Early diagnosis is emphasized as a critical factor in enabling better treatment outcomes.

4. Collective stakeholder efforts. Insights from healthcare professionals around the globe underscore the importance of collaborative efforts, education and early intervention. As a partner to International Diabetes Federation, P&G Health is committed to continued efforts to raise awareness on diabetes and its associated complications including PN and vitamin B deficiency. The goal is to create a comprehensive support system that addresses the challenges posed by Peripheral Neuropathy on a global scale.