Characteristics of Patients With Type 2 Diabetes in México

Abstract

OBJECTIVE—To describe the clinical characteristics of the diabetic population that formed part of a population-based survey conducted in México.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS—In 2000, information was obtained from 42,886 subjects aged ≥20 years using a multistage sampling procedure. Standardized questionnaires were used. Anthropometric measurements, blood pressure, and capillary glucose concentrations were taken.

RESULTS—Type 2 diabetes was found in 3,597 subjects (age-adjusted prevalence 8.18%), of which 2,878 (80%) had previously been diagnosed. The average age of the diabetic participants was 55.2 ± 13.5 years; 13% were <40 years of age. Nine percent had been diagnosed for >10 years. The average BMI was 29.2 ± 5.7 kg/m²; three-quarters of the cases had BMI >25 kg/m². The average waist circumference was 102 ± 13.4 cm, and increased waist circumference was more common among women. Arterial hypertension was found in half of the cases and, of those on treatment, only one-third had a blood pressure <140/90 mmHg. Smoking was reported in 34% of the diabetic group, a higher rate than in the nondiabetic subjects. There was at least one modifiable coronary risk factor in 67.6% of the cases. Very few followed an exercise or dietary regimen and a small percentage used insulin.

CONCLUSIONS—Diabetes affects a large proportion of Mexican adults (8.18%). This figure may be underestimated. The majority of the subjects had modifiable risk factors for the chronic complications of diabetes. Only a few achieved adequate blood pressure control and other treatment goals.