Prevalence of diabetes and factors associated with diabetic complications in Oneida Indians

The study objective was to determine the prevalence of diabetes mellitus among Oneida Indians and to identify factors associated with the development of medical complications. After identifying patients with diabetes (N = 373) treated at the Oneida Community Health Center, their medical records were reviewed to determine age, body mass index (BMI), types of medication used, HbAlc, and the presence of diabetic complications. The age and sex-adjusted prevalence of diabetes was 86.5/1000 population. Where type of diabetes could be determined (N = 345) 96% were non-insulin dependent; 67% were afflicted with diabetic complications. 56% had hypertension. Age, BMI, and HbAlc were significant variables with respect to the presence of certain complications. Although lower than the prevalence for some other groups of Native Americans, diabetes and its complications represent a serious problem for the Oneida Indians. Consistent screening, intensive intervention and culture-sensitive prevention efforts focussing on weight control are needed.