The global prevalence of peripheral neuropathy following chemotherapy in cancer patients: a systematic review and meta-analysis

TL;DR

This study finds that nearly half of cancer patients experience chemotherapy-induced nerve damage, which can affect treatment and quality of life.

Contribution

The study provides a global meta-analysis of CIPN prevalence using multiple databases and CIPN scales.

Findings

Overall CIPN prevalence was 51.9% (95% CI: 45–58.7) across 33,667 participants.

The highest CIPN prevalence was 69.6% using the Composite Scales tool (95% CI: 50–84).

The study highlights the need for clinical strategies to reduce CIPN and treatment costs.

Abstract

Chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN) is a major cause of dose reduction, drug modification, or drug discontinuation in cancer patients which negatively impacts the overall well-being of cancer patients and medication procedures. This systematic review and meta-analysis investigation aimed to determine the global prevalence of CIPN in cancer patients.

Various scientific databases (PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, Embase, ScienceDirect, and Google Scholar) were systematically searched (by July 2023) for published studies reporting the CIPN prevalence. Meta-analysis was applied based on the Random Effect model and subgrouping was considered using the CIPN scales. Also, the heterogeneity was assessed based on the I2 index.

Following the assessment of 49 eligible studies (n:33,667 participants), the overall CIPN prevalence was reported 51.9% (95% CI: 45-58.7). According to the Composite Scales tool, the highest CIPN prevalence was 69.6% (95%CI: 50–84).

The prevalence of CIPN in cancer patients was found at a high level. According to the high number of cancer survivors, the integration of necessary clinical strategies for screening, prevention, and treatment of CIPN into consistent clinical guidelines is strictly recommended. Probably these guidelines can reduce the CIPN occurrence and cancer treatment costs.

Not applicable.

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