Type 2 diabetes mellitus in Papua New Guinea--an historical perspective

Type 2 diabetes mellitus is an increasing problem in Papua New Guinea (PNG). Five dominant themes emerge from the literature on diabetes in PNG: 1) The concept of the 'thrifty genotype' predisposing Papua New Guineans, like many other traditional populations, to type 2 diabetes, 2) Some coastal ethnic groups (particularly with Wanigelans and Tolais) appear to be more predisposed than others, 3) Prevalence of type 2 diabetes markedly rises with urbanization and adoption of a more western lifestyle, 4) Morbidity and mortality associated with the disease is high, and 5) Type 2 diabetes is overwhelmingly the most common type, with other types being rare. The literature is reviewed within the framework of these themes.