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Diabetes in an older Australian population
P Mitchell1, W Smith, J J Wang
1Department of Ophthalmology, the University of Sydney, Westmead, NSW, Australia. paulmi@westmed.wh.su.edu.au
Diabetes Research and Clinical Practice
|November 26, 1998
Summary
This study found that diabetes prevalence in older Australians is similar to national estimates. Diabetes history strongly correlates with vascular events and risk factors, highlighting the need for management in this population.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Epidemiology
- Endocrinology
Background:
- Diabetes mellitus is a significant public health concern, particularly in aging populations.
- Understanding the prevalence and associated vascular risks in older adults is crucial for effective healthcare strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence of self-reported and undiagnosed diabetes in older Australians using new fasting plasma glucose (FPG) criteria.
- To investigate the vascular associations with a history of diabetes in this demographic.
Main Methods:
- A population-based sample of 3654 Australians aged 49 years and older from the Blue Mountains Eye Study participated.
- Data collection included medical history, vascular events, risk factors, and fasting plasma glucose (FPG) tests for 88% of subjects.
Main Results:
- Diabetes history was reported by 5.9% of participants. New criteria identified an additional 2.2% with elevated FPG and 4.2% with impaired fasting glucose.
- Diabetes history was significantly associated with obesity, hypertension, elevated triglycerides, and a history of angina, myocardial infarction, and stroke, especially in smokers.
Conclusions:
- The observed diabetes prevalence aligns with recent national health surveys.
- Strong associations between diabetes history, vascular events, and risk factors underscore the importance of managing vascular health in older adults with diabetes.