Differing clinical features in Aboriginal vs. non-Aboriginal children presenting with type 2 diabetes

Abstract

Objectives: Childhood type 2 diabetes (T2D) is increasing and may present differently across various populations. This study compares clinical features of T2D at diagnosis in Aboriginal children with Caucasian children and children from other high-risk ethnic groups.

Patients and methods: This retrospective observational study used data from a Canadian surveillance study where newly diagnosed cases of childhood T2D were reported (n = 227). Using descriptive statistics, clinical features at diagnosis of T2D were compared across different ethnic groups including Aboriginal (n = 100), Caucasian (n = 57), and other high-risk ethnic groups (n = 64). Comparisons were made between Aboriginal children living in central Canada (Manitoba/northwestern Ontario) (n = 74) and Aboriginal children from other regions of Canada (n = 26).

Results: Aboriginal children were younger, less obese, and less likely to have polycystic ovarian syndrome and dyslipidemia when compared to Caucasian children and children from other high-risk ethnic groups (p < 0.05). Aboriginal children from central Canada vs. those from other regions of Canada did not differ in age, body mass index z-score, family history of T2D, or presence of acanthosis nigricans. Those from central Canada had lower hemoglobin A1c levels (p < 0.05) and were less likely to have dyslipidemia than Aboriginal children from other regions (p < 0.05).

Conclusions: Clinical features and rates of comorbidity in children with newly diagnosed T2D differ across various populations (Caucasian, Aboriginal, and children who belong to other high-risk ethnic groups) and across distinct Aboriginal populations (those living in central Canada vs. those living in other regions of Canada). Future research should determine specific genetic and environmental factors that contribute to these differences.