Diabetes mellitus in a subgroup of older Mexicans: prevalence, association with cardiovascular risk factors, functional and cognitive impairment, and mortality.

Abstract

To examine the prevalence and effects of diabetes mellitus in a subgroup of older Mexicans to allow comparisons to older persons of Mexican origin living in the United States. Longitudinal study. High-rise retirement housing in Mexico City. Seven hundred eighty-five public servants and their family members aged 65 and older. Geriatric survey of function; mental status and depression; a physical examination; and blood samples for glucose and cholesterol. The prevalence of diabetes mellitus in this population was 15.1%, substantially lower than the prevalence reported in people of Mexican origin living in the United States. Nondiabetics were more obese than diabetics. Diabetes mellitus was more common in men than women. The mortality rate was greater in diabetics than nondiabetics (relative risk=1.73, P <.05). Diabetics had more coronary artery disease and were more likely to die from myocardial infarction and neoplasms than nondiabetics. Diabetics were more likely to be functionally impaired (P <.0001) but no more likely to fall or to have fractures. Diabetics did not differ from nondiabetics in cognitive impairment or level of dysphoria. These studies highlight some important similarities and differences in comparing a middle class subgroup of older diabetics in Mexico City with diabetics of Mexican origin living in the United States.