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The epidemiology of insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus (IDDM): report from Thailand
C Tuchinda1, K Angsusingha, K Chaichanwalanakul
1Department of Pediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand.
Insights
The incidence of type 1 diabetes mellitus (IDDM) in Thai children aged 0-15 years remained low in 1984-1985, with seasonal variations and higher rates in lower socioeconomic groups. Factors like genetics and lifestyle may influence these findings.
Area of Science:
- Pediatrics
- Endocrinology
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Diabetes mellitus in children is a growing global concern.
- Understanding the epidemiology of diabetes in specific populations is crucial for public health initiatives.
- Previous studies on diabetes in Thai children were limited, necessitating updated data.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the incidence and epidemiological characteristics of diabetes mellitus in Thai children aged 0-15 years.
- To compare the findings of 1985 with a previous study conducted in 1984.
- To identify potential influencing factors such as seasonality, socioeconomic status, and family history.
Main Methods:
- A descriptive epidemiological study was conducted.
- Questionnaires were distributed to hospitals across Thailand in 1984 and 1985.
- Data on newly diagnosed cases of diabetes mellitus, including type, age, sex, and clinical presentation, were collected and analyzed.
Main Results:
- The incidence of insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus (IDDM) in Thai children was low (0.19/100,000/year in 1984, 0.14/100,000/year in 1985).
- Type 1 diabetes (IDDM) predominated over non-insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus (NIDDM).
- Seasonal variations in symptom onset were observed, with a peak in winter, and higher incidence in families with lower socioeconomic status.
Conclusions:
- The incidence of IDDM in Thai children appears to be among the lowest reported globally.
- Genetic, environmental, dietary, and lifestyle factors likely contribute to the observed epidemiological patterns.
- Further research is warranted to elucidate the specific factors influencing diabetes incidence in this population.
Abstract:
The epidemiology of diabetes mellitus in Thai children aged 0-15 years was studied in 1985 and compared with a previous study done in 1984. Four hundred and seventy-six questionnaires were sent each year to hospitals in Thailand. In 1984, thirty-six cases of newly diagnosed diabetes mellitus were found of which 35 were IDDM and one was NIDDM. In 1985, twenty-seven cases of new IDDM were found, no case of NIDDM was reported. Two cases of MRD were reported from the Northeastern and Southern part of Thailand. The incidence of IDDM in the whole kingdom of Thailand was 0.19/100,000/year in 1984 and 0.14/100,000/year in 1985. The male to female ratio was 1:1.5 in 1984 and 1:2 in 1985. The peak age at diagnosis showed the main peak at 14 years old in boys. The peak age of girls preceded boys by 1-2 years in 1984 and 1985. Similar findings in 1984 and 1985 were the onset of symptoms showing a seasonal variation with highest frequency in winter with a slight change of increased incidence in the rainy season of 1985. There was an increased incidence of IDDM in families with lower educational and socioeconomic levels. The newly diagnosed IDDM with DKA was 16.2, and 19.5 per cent in 1984 and 1985. The incidence of IDDM in Thai children, aged 0-15 years seems to be the lowest compared to other countries previously described which might be due to some genetic and environmental including diet, micronutrient, eating habits and life-style which might play a role in the difference.
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