Diabetes in Canadian Women

Abstract

HEALTH ISSUE: Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a chronic health condition affecting 4.8% of Canadian adults >/= 20 years of age. The prevalence increases with age. According to the National Diabetes Surveillance System (NDSS) (1998-1999), approximately 12% of Canadians aged 60-74 years are affected. One-third of cases may remain undiagnosed. The projected increase in DM prevalence largely results from rising rates of obesity and inactivity. KEY FINDINGS: DM in Canada appears to be more common among men than women. However, among Aboriginal Canadians, two-thirds of affected individuals are women. Although obesity is more prevalent among men than women (35% vs. 27%), the DM risk associated with obesity is greater for women. Socio-economic status is inversely related to DM prevalence but the income-related disparities are greater among women. Polycystic ovarian syndrome affects 5-7% of reproductive-aged women and doubles their risk for DM. Women with gestational diabetes frequently develop DM over the next 10 years. DATA GAPS AND RECOMMENDATIONS: Studies of at risk ethnic/racial groups and women with gestational diabetes are needed. Age and culturally sensitive programs need to be developed and evaluated. Studies of low-income diabetic women are required before determining potential interventions. Lifestyle programs in schools and workplaces are needed to promote well-being and combat obesity/inactivity, together with lobbying of the food industry for needed changes. High depression rates among diabetic women influence self-care ability and health care expenditures. Health professionals need further training in the use of effective counseling skills that will assist people with DM to make and maintain difficult behavioural changes.

Figure 1

Prevalence Rates of DM by Age and Sex. CCHS represents self-reported DM. ODD and NDSS are administrative data, based on diagnosed DM. All prevalence data are age adjusted.

Figure 2

Prevalence of Previously Undetected Diabetes and Impaired Glucose Tolerance (IGT) Among Primary Care Practices in Canada (DIASCAN) (Age-Adjusted). Source: Harris et al "The prevalence of NIDDM and associated risk factors in native Canadians" Diabetes Care 1997; 20:185–187. Prevalence of Previously Undetected Diabetes and Impaired Glucose Tolerance (IGT) Among Primary. Care Practices in Canada (DIASCAN) (Age-Adjusted)

Figure 3

The Prevalence of Diabetes and Impaired Glucose Tolerance (IGT) Among Native Canadians in Sandy Lake, Ontario (Age-Adjusted).

Figure 4

Rates of Diabetes and Impaired Glucose Tolerance (IGT) Among Different Ethnic Groups Participating in the SHARE Study [18] (Age-Adjusted)

Figure 5

Ethnic Composition of Participants With and Without DM in the Ontario Health Survey [19] (Age-Adjusted)