Rapid glucose absorption in Arabs in Saudi Arbia compared with that in Africans in Zambia

Glucose absorption rates in 14 Arabs in Saudi Arabia were determined by a jejunal perfusion technique and compared with those in 18 Africans in Zambia. None of the subjects had clinical evidence of systemic infection, gastrointestinal disease, malnutrition, or diabetes mellitus. The mean absorption rate was significantly higher in the Arabs. This was associated with a higher incidence of subclinical chronic systemic infection in the Africans. Other factors possibly responsible for the difference, including genetic difference, have, however, not been excluded.