[Epidemiology of diabetes in the elderly]

Societies in Latin America are undergoing a remarkable epidemiological transformation. Diabetes and other chronic non-transmissible diseases are becoming the leading health problems in this region. In Mexico, the prevalence of type 2 diabetes had a remarkable growth in recent years. The percentage of the population that has been already diagnosed changed from 4% in 1994 to 7% in 2006. The prevalence is even greater if asymptomatic cases are considered; it increased from 6.7 to 14.4% in the same period of time. Diabetes prevalence increases directly with age. In 2006, the prevalence was 46.8% in subjects aged 60 to 69; the corresponding rate is 21% in individuals older than age 70. In the coming decades, the elderly diabetic population in this country will consist of newly diagnosed cases and patients with significant micro and macrovascular complications due to longer duration of disease. The diagnosis and management of diabetes in older adults can be challenging. The presence of geriatric problems such as depression, cognitive impairment, physical disability, frequent falls, polypharmacy and comorbid illness can make management of these patients a daunting task. The aims of diabetic management should include the maintenance of functionality, the minimization of complications and the adequate control of comorbid conditions.