The clinical characteristics of diabetes mellitus in Papua New Guinea

Abstract

The typical patient with diabetes mellitus seen at major hospitals in Papua New Guinea between 1974 and 1977 had florid symptoms, a very high blood glucose, was non-obese and non-ketotic and, frequently had neuropathy and proteinuria. In 25% hypertension was present which was significantly more common in the presence of proteinuria. Diagnosis was often delayed by failure to test urine for glucose and treatment was usually ineffective so that coma, usually non-ketotic, severe infections and gangrene occurred frequently. Although not as common as in other South Pacific countries, diabetes is increasing in Papua New Guinea. The provision of simple adequate facilities to test urine for glucose in all hospitals and the establishment of diabetic out-patient clinics in major centres to instruct both patients and other health workers are essential to improve treatment and reduce mortality and morbidity.