Diabetes in South and Central America: an update

Risk Factors for Diabetic Retinopathy in Latin America (Mexico) and the World: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is one of the main complications of diabetes, and the management of the main control parameters explains only an 11% reduction in the risk of progressing to DR, leaving 89% to be explained by other factors or correlations between the usual factors that are currently unknown. The objective of this systematic review and meta-analysis is to evaluate the similarities and differences between the possible risk factors for developing DR when comparing the world to Latin American populations. The search was performed first for Latin American (LA) populations and a second search for non-Latin American (Non-LA) populations. Using the PRISMA guidelines, five articles were found to be relevant for each of the groups. The patients who had elevated systolic blood pressure (SBP) developed DR more frequently than the patients without retinopathy (Z = 2.1, p = 0.03), an effect measured in the population at a global level (GL), behavior that becomes not significant when the LA and non-LA populations are grouped separately; relevant to this is that the diagnosis of hypertension (HBP) grouped globally and stratified does not present a risk factor for DR (Z = 0.79, p = 0.42). This indicates that SBP is a risk factor for the world population and that, by separating it into different regions, the omission could cause it not to be considered a possible risk factor. In conclusion, the relationship between the increase in DR associated with the risk factors present in different populations, the limited research conducted in Latin America, and the cultural, social, economic, and genetic differences makes for a complex condition, which reflects the necessity of researching in a more integrated way.

Organizational intervention to improve access to retinopathy screening for patients with diabetes mellitus: health care service improvement project in a tertiary public hospital

INTRODUCTION

The aim of this study was to improve the access to diabetic retinopathy (DR) screening with retinographies in a tertiary care center through a process conducted by an interdisciplinary group driven by a nurse.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This is a quality improvement study that evaluated the flow for DR screening conducted by an interdisciplinary group using the Plan-Do-Study-Act methodology. As a result measure, we assessed the quantity of retinographies performed after the project implementation, the proportion of patients who presented abnormal retinographies, and the proportion of patients referred to a specialist.

RESULTS

The new patient screening flow and the reinforcement of available human resources led to an increase in the number of retinographies performed and screened patients. A total of 1184 retinographies were conducted, and it was possible to observe DR alterations in 37.8 % patients, of which only 6 % needed to be referred to the DR reference center.

CONCLUSIONS

This study showed a significant increase in the number of retinographies performed. The Plan-Do-Study-Act methodology was an important tool to improve the flow of patient access to fundus images, helping to consistently and continuously improve these processes.

Endothelial progenitor cell (EPCs)-derived exosomal miR-30d-5p inhibits the inflammatory response of high glucose-impaired fibroblasts by affecting the M1/M2 polarization of macrophages

Background: Diabetes is a common chronic disease which has caused a great burden on families and society. The treatment of diabetes has always been a hotspot. This study aimed to explore the effect and mechanism of miR-30d-5pon inflammation of high glucose-impaired human keloid fibroblasts (HKF).

Methods: Differently-expressed miRNAs were predicted by bioinformatics methods. Exosomes were observed by transmission electron microscope. Exosome particle sizes were measured by NanoSight. Western Blot was used to detect the expression of CD81, CD63, CD9, and Calnexin. QRT-PCR was used to detect the expression of miR-30d-5p, IL-1β, TNF-α, VEGF, FGF21, NRF2, and HO-1. The levels of IL-1β, TNF-α, IL-6, IL-10, and TGF-β were determined by ELISA. Cell apoptosis and CD86, CD206 positive cells were detected by flow cytometry.

Results: Tori formula could promote the secretion of endothelial progenitor cell (EPCs) exosomes. EPCs exosomes and miR-30d-5p could stimulate the proliferation of HKF impaired by high glucose and the expression of IL-10 and TGF-β. MiR-30d-5p inhibited the proliferation of M1 macrophages and the expression of IL-1β and TNF-α. It could also promote the proliferation of M2 macrophages and the expression of CCL17 and CCL22. Moreover, miR-30d-5p stimulated the expression of VEGF, FGF21, NRF2, and HO-1, as well as suppressed the expression of IL-1β, TNF-α, and IL-6. MiR-30d-5p also restrained the apoptosis of impaired HKF. Conclusion: This study confirmed that miR-30d-5p could promote the M1/M2 polarization and inhibit the inflammatory response of impaired HKF, which provided a certain idea and direction for treating diabetes.

Onychomycosis in Patients with Diabetes Mellitus in Africa: A Global Scoping Review, 2000-2021

Onychomycosis is commonly studied in Africa but not in patients with diabetics despite having a significant number of her population living with diabetes mellitus (DM). Our review highlights a total of 15 studies with only two from Africa over the past two decades; 8 (53.3%) from Asia, 4 (26.7%) from Europe, 2 (13.3%) from Africa and 1 (6.7%) from North America. A total number of 4321 participants were involved with onychomycosis prevalence of 35.3% (1527/4321). Seven studies documented preponderance of onychomycosis in males, one showed preponderance in females, one showed no statistically significant difference in gender, while correlation with gender was unclear in the remainder. The risk factors identified were duration of diabetes, increasing age, occupation (agriculture), subclinical atherosclerosis, metabolic syndrome, obesity, triglyceride levels, and glycosylated haemoglobin. Three case control studies showed a statistically significant correlation between onychomycosis and individuals with DM. Diagnosis was mainly by microscopy and culture with Trichophyton (T) rubrum as the predominant isolate. Fungal nail infections are grossly underdiagnosed and/or underreported in Africa and hence the need for improved awareness and diagnosis especially in patients with DM. Although focused on Africa, this study also revealed paucity of data on onychomycosis in diabetic patients living in the Americas despite evidence from the literature showing a significant number of individuals from that region are living with diabetes. The need to evaluate this at-risk population for onychomycosis cannot be over emphasized.

Efficacy and Safety of Insulin Glargine 300 U/mL in People with Type 2 Diabetes Uncontrolled on Basal Insulin: The 26-Week Interventional, Single-Arm ARTEMIS-DM Study

INTRODUCTION

The efficacy and safety of switching to insulin glargine 300 U/mL (Gla-300) in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) uncontrolled on basal insulin (BI) has been demonstrated in the North American and Western European populations; however, there is limited data from other geographical regions with different ethnicities. The ARTEMIS-DM study aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of Gla-300 in people with T2DM uncontrolled on BI from Asia, Latin America and Middle East Africa.

METHODS

The ARTEMIS-DM was a 26-week, prospective, interventional, single-arm, phase IV study (NCT03760991). Adults with T2DM previously uncontrolled (glycated haemoglobin [HbA_1c] 7.5-10%) on BI were switched to Gla-300. The primary endpoint was change in HbA_1c from baseline to 26 weeks. Key secondary endpoints were changes in HbA_1c (week 12), fasting plasma glucose (FPG), self-monitored plasma glucose (SMPG) and BI dose from baseline to week 26. The safety and tolerability of Gla-300 were also assessed.

RESULTS

A total of 372 (50% male) participants were included, with mean (standard deviation [SD]) age 60.9 (10.0) years, duration of diabetes 13.11 (7.48) years and baseline HbA_1c 8.67 (0.77)% (71.22 [8.44] mmol/mol). A total of 222 (59.7%) participants were using insulin glargine 100 U/mL and 107 (28.8%) were using neutral protamine Hagedorn insulin as previous BI. There were clinically significant reductions in mean HbA_1c (- 0.82%; primary endpoint), FPG and SMPG levels at week 26. With a pre-defined titration algorithm, mean Gla-300 dose increased from 27.48 U (0.35 U/kg) at baseline to 39.01 U (0.50 U/kg) at week 26. Hypoglycaemia events occurred in 20.4% of the participants; 1 (0.3%) participant had a severe hypoglycaemia event.

CONCLUSION

In people with T2DM uncontrolled on previous BI, switching to Gla-300 with optimal titration guided by an algorithm was associated with improved glycaemic control and low incidence of hypoglycaemia across multiple geographic regions.

GOV IDENTIFIER

NCT03760991.

PRospective Observational Registry Evaluating the Safety and Effectivenessof Orsiro Stent in Chilean Patients - ROSES Registry

BACKGROUND

There is little information on the performance of the new generation of stents with bioabsorbable polymers in the Latin American population. This registry aimed to further validate the safety and efficacy of the Orsiro bioresorbable-polymer sirolimus-eluting stent (BPSES) in unselected patients undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) in Chilean centers.

METHODS

We prospectively enrolled patients undergoing PCI with BPSES in 6 Chilean centers. The primary endpoint was defined as the composite of cardiac death, target vessel-related myocardial infarction (MI), and clinically driven target lesion revascularization at 1-year follow-up.

RESULTS

From April 2017 to February 2019, 520 patients were enrolled in the registry, more frequently male (74.6%), with a mean age of 62.7 ± 10.8 years and a high prevalence of diabetes (40.2%). The clinical presentation was stable angina in 41.1% (n = 214), acute MI in 52.5% (n = 167 [32.1%] ST-elevation MI and n = 106 [20.4%] non-ST-elevation MI), and unstable angina in 6.3% (n = 33). Of 610 treated lesions, 425 (69.7%) were American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association type B or C lesions. Device and procedural success were achieved in 99.4% and 98.7% of the patients, respectively. The primary endpoint of the study occurred in 4%, primarily driven by cardiac death.

CONCLUSIONS

The results of the ROSES multicenter registry indicated good clinical outcomes of BPSES Orsiro in all-comers Latin Americann patients undergoing PCI, despite the high-risk patients and treated lesions.

Patients' Preference Between DPP4i and SGLT2i for Type 2 Diabetes Treatment: A Cross-Sectional Evaluation

PURPOSE

Despite newer type 2 diabetes (T2D) medications, patients do not always achieve metabolic targets, remaining at risk for cardiorenal complications. Therapeutic decisions are generally made by the healthcare team without considering patients' preferences. We aimed to evaluate patients' T2D treatment preference in two Latin-American countries between two different oral medication profiles, one resembling dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitors (DPP4i) and another resembling sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 inhibitors (SGLT2i).

PATIENTS AND METHODS

In this cross-sectional, multicenter study from June to September 2020, patients with T2D from Argentina and Mexico (n = 390) completed a discrete choice experiment questionnaire to identify preferences between DPP4i (medication profile A) and SGLT2i (medication profile B). The reason behind patients' choice, and the association between their baseline characteristics and their preference were evaluated using logistic regression methods.

RESULTS

Most participants (88.2%) preferred SGLT2i's profile. Participants with older age (p = 0.0346), overweight or obesity (p < 0.0001), high blood pressure (BP; p < 0.0001), high total cholesterol (p = 0.0360), and glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c) <7% (p = 0.0001) were more likely to choose SGLT2i compared with DPP4i's profile. The most and least important reasons to choose either drug profile were HbA1c reduction and genital infection risk, respectively. The likelihood of selecting the SGLT2i's profile significantly increased in participants with increased body mass index (BMI; odds ratio [OR] = 8.9, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 3.5-22.5, p < 0.05), high BP (OR = 4.9, 95% CI: 1.9-12.4, p < 0.05), and lower education level (OR = 3.6, 95% CI: 1.0-12.6, p < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

Latin-American patients with T2D preferred medication with a profile resembling SGLT2i over one resembling DPP4i as a treatment option. A patient-centered approach may aid the healthcare team in decision-making for improved outcomes.

Glycemic control, treatment and complications in patients with type 1 diabetes amongst healthcare settings in Mexico

AIMS

Type 1 diabetes (T1D) is a growing chronic disease. Evidence of whether the healthcare setting affects management and glycemic control is scarce. We evaluate outcomes in patients with T1D in private and public healthcare settings in Mexico, registered in the National T1D Registry in Mexico (RENACED-DT1).

METHODS

Biochemical parameters, diabetes education, and treatment were analyzed considering the data registered in the last visit. Development of chronic complications was determined during follow-up.

RESULTS

We included 1,603 patients; 71.5% (n = 1,146) registered in the public system, and 28.5% (n = 457) in a private institution. Patients in the public setting had higher HbA1c (8.6%, IQR: 7.3%-10.5% vs 7.7%, IQR: 7.0%-8.8%; p < 0.001). Indicators of diabetes education, glucose monitoring, and use of insulin-pumps were lower in the public setting. Patients in the public setting were at higher risk of diabetic chronic kidney disease, retinopathy, and neuropathy. Diabetes knowledge was a mediator between type of healthcare setting and the likelihood of achieving glycemic control.

CONCLUSIONS

Patients registered in public healthcare settings have an adverse metabolic profile and higher risk of complications. Social factors need to be addressed in order to implement multidisciplinary measures focused on diabetes education for patients with T1D in Mexico.

Diabetes and associated dietary intake among urban adults: COPEN (Colombian Nutritional Profiles)-a cross-sectional study

OBJECTIVES

Diabetes is increasing rapidly in low-income and middle-income countries. We aimed to estimate the prevalence of diabetes, describe its correlates and its associated dietary intake in urban adults from Colombia.

SETTING

The Colombian Study of Nutritional Profiles was a population-based, cross-sectional, multi-stage probabilistic sampling survey designed to represent the five main Colombian cities.

PARTICIPANTS

Between June and November 2018, we studied 736 non-pregnant participants aged 18 or older. Diabetes was defined as a random plasma glucose ≥200 mg/dL, self-reported prior diagnosis of diabetes or use of any oral or injectable antidiabetic medication(s). Participants also fulfilled a detailed 157-item food-frequency questionnaire.

PRIMARY AND SECONDARY OUTCOME MEASURES

Prevalence of diabetes, dietary intake of key nutrients, achievement of dietary goals among individuals with diabetes.

RESULTS

The overall estimated prevalence of diabetes was 10.1%, with no difference by sex (9.6% in women, 10.8% in men, p=0.43). The association between diabetes and education level depended on sex, diabetes was more prevalent among more educated men and less educated women. Abdominal obesity was associated with a 65% increase in diabetes prevalence among men, and a 163% increase in women. Individuals with diabetes reported lower mean consumption of all nutrients, but after adjustment by sex, age, socioeconomic level (SEL) and body mass index, only their lower sodium consumption remained significant (p=0.013). The proportion of non-achievement of dietary intake goals among participants with diabetes was 94.4% for saturated fats, 86.7% for sodium, 84.4% for fibre and 80% for trans fats. In multivariate logistic regression models, age was the strongest independent correlate of diabetes.

CONCLUSIONS

Diabetes by self-report, random plasma glucose or medication use was highly prevalent among Colombian adults. There were large differences by abdominal obesity status, region of residence, SEL and educational level. The proportion of individuals with diabetes meeting dietary recommendations was alarmingly low.

Exploring early combination strategy in Latin American patients with newly diagnosed type 2 diabetes: a sub-analysis of the VERIFY study

BACKGROUND

Patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) from Latin American countries face challenges in access to healthcare, leading to under-diagnosis, under-achievement of glycemic target, and long-term complications. Early diagnosis and treatment initiation are of paramount importance in this population due to the high prevalence of risk factors such as obesity and metabolic syndrome. The VERIFY study in patients with newly diagnosed T2DM (across 34 countries), assessed the normoglycemic durability (5 years), with early combination (EC) therapy approach versus the traditional stepwise approach of initiating treatment with metformin monotherapy (MET). Here we present the results from the VERIFY study for participants from eight countries in Latin America.

METHODS

Newly diagnosed adult patients with T2DM, HbA1c 6.5-7.5% and body-mass index (BMI) of 22-40 kg/m² were enrolled. The primary endpoint was time to initial treatment failure (TF; HbA1c ≥ 7.0% at two consecutive scheduled visits 13 weeks apart). Time to second TF was evaluated when patients in both groups were receiving and failing on the vildagliptin combination. Safety and tolerability were also assessed for both treatment approaches during the study.

RESULTS

A total of 537 eligible patients (female, 58.8%) were randomly assigned to receive either EC (n = 266) or MET (n = 271). EC significantly reduced the relative risk of time to initial TF by 47% versus MET [HR (95% CI) 0.53 (0.4, 0.7) p < 0.0001]. Overall, 46.4% versus 66.3% of patients achieved the primary endpoint in the EC and MET groups, with a median [interquartile range (IQR)] time to TF of 59.8 (27.5, not evaluable) and 33.4 (12.2, 60.1) months, respectively. The risk for time to second TF was 31% lower with EC (p < 0.0092). A higher proportion of patients receiving EC maintained durable HbA1c < 7.0%, < 6.5%, and < 6.0%. Both treatment approaches were well tolerated, and only 3.2% of participants discontinued the study due to adverse events. All hypoglycemic events (EC: n = 7 and MET: n = 3) were single, mild episodes and did not lead to study discontinuation.

CONCLUSION

Similar to the global population, long-term clinical benefits were achieved more frequently and without tolerability issues with EC versus standard-of-care MET in this Latin American sub-population. This study is registered with ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT01528254.

Prevalence of Diabetes, Prediabetes, and Associated Risk Factors Among Agricultural Village Residents in the Dominican Republic

This study examined the prevalence and risk factors of prediabetes and type 2 diabetes among residents of agricultural settlement villages (bateyes) in the Dominican Republic. From March to April 2016, a cross-sectional, multi-stage cluster survey was conducted across the country's three agricultural regions (southwest, east, and north). At selected households, an adult completed a questionnaire to assess demographics, diabetes knowledge, and care, and two household residents of any age provided finger-prick blood samples that were analyzed for hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c). HbA1c was categorized as normal (< 5.7%), prediabetic (5.7-6.4%), or diabetic (≥ 6.5%). The prevalence rates of diabetes and prediabetes were 8.6% (95% confidence interval [CI], 6.2-11.8%) and 20.4% (95% CI, 17.9-23.2%), respectively, among all participants (N = 1293; median age, 35 years; range, 2-96 years), and 10.0% (95% CI, 7.2-13.8%) and 20.0% (95% CI, 17.4-23.0%), respectively, among adults 18 years or older (N = 730). The average age of participants with diabetes was 47.2 years. The average age of participants with prediabetes was 40.7 years. Among adult questionnaire respondents, 64.8% of all participants and 39.4% of patients with diabetes had not been tested for diabetes previously. Among patients with diabetes, 28.4% were previously diagnosed; 1.2% of prediabetes patients were previously diagnosed. Half (50.7%) of the respondents had heard of diabetes. The majority (94.1%) of patients previously diagnosed with diabetes reported using diabetes medication. Among both undiagnosed and previously diagnosed patients with diabetes, diabetes knowledge, previous diabetes testing, and diabetes care-seeking were lowest among Haitian-born participants. A high burden of undiagnosed diabetes and deficiencies in diabetes knowledge, access to care, and diagnosis exist among all batey inhabitants, but most acutely among Haitians. Improvements will require a multi-sectoral approach.

Diabetes in French Guiana, adapting national standards of therapeutic education and care to the amazonian challenge

French Guiana is a territory located more than 7000 km from France. It is also the largest French territory, with almost 84000 km² and 90% of it is covered by forest. Some municipalities are isolated due to the scarcity of transportation and the poor road infrastructure. The population is extremely diverse ethnically and culturally, and includes more than thirty ethnic groups. Immigration is high because it is one of the richest countries in the area bordering northern Brazil, Suriname, Guyana, and as a result of socio-economic crises in some other countries such as Haiti, and it has permeable natural borders. Diabetes and obesity, are emerging issues, with double the prevalence of Mainland France, whereas infectious diseases, such as HIV, take second place. Therapeutic and educational management are challenging because they require the adaptation of tools and treatments to the mul-ticulturalism and precariousness often encountered in these populations. The French and European recommendations are unsuited to the needs of the territory and must take into account the epidemiological, sociological and cultural parameters of these populations in order to provide appropriate and graded management of diabetes in the French Amazon.

Association of education level with diabetes prevalence in Latin American cities and its modification by city social environment

Background

Diabetes prevalence continues to increase in urban areas of low-income and middle-income countries (LMIC). Evidence from high-income countries suggests an inverse association between educational attainment and diabetes, but research in LMIC is limited. We investigated educational differences in diabetes prevalence across 232 Latin American (LA) cities, and the extent to which these inequities vary across countries/cities and are modified by city socioeconomic factors.

Methods

Using harmonised health survey and census data for 110 498 city dwellers from eight LA countries, we estimated the association between education and diabetes. We considered effect modification by city Social Environment Index (SEI) as a proxy for city-level development using multilevel models, considering heterogeneity by sex and country.

Results

In women, there was an inverse dose–response relationship between education and diabetes (OR: 0.80 per level increase in education, 95% CI 0.75 to 0.85), consistent across countries and not modified by SEI. In men, Argentina, Brazil, Colombia, Chile and Mexico showed an inverse association (pooled OR: 0.92; 95% CI 0.86 to 0.99). Peru, Panama and El Salvador showed a positive relationship (pooled OR 1.24; 95% CI 1.04 to 1.49). For men, these associations were further modified by city-SEI: in countries with an inverse association, it became stronger as city-SEI increased. In countries where the association was positive, it became weaker as city-SEI increased.

Conclusion

Social inequities in diabetes inequalities increase as cities develop. To achieve non-communicable disease-related sustainable development goals in LMIC, there is an urgent need to develop policies aimed at reducing these educational inequities.

Diabetes Mellitus and Renal Function: Current Medical Research and Opinion

Diabetes mellitus (DM), which is defined as high blood glucose level, is a major public health issue worldwide. An enormous amount of data has been gathered regarding DM as populations have been living with it for more than a decade; however, continually updating our knowledge of DM remains important. Comorbidities are among the major challenges associated with DM. Poorly controlled DM, especially type 2 DM (T2DM), is considered a risk factor for many diseases, including but not limited to chronic kidney disease (CKD). Complications might appear over time as the aging process changes body functions; moreover, a significant number of antidiabetic medications are eventually cleared by the kidneys, thereby increasing the burden on kidney function and placing diabetic patients at risk. The significantly high number of patients with uncontrolled diabetes resulting from kidney disease shows the impact of this condition on the quality of life of patients. This review presents an overview of the pathophysiology, etiology, and prevalence of CKD and abnormal renal parameters correlated with poorly controlled T2DM, with an emphasis on clinical studies involving the association between vitamin D insufficiency/deficiency and CKD among patients with T2DM.

Current State of Diabetes Mellitus Prevalence, Awareness, Treatment, and Control in Latin America: Challenges and Innovative Solutions to Improve Health Outcomes Across the Continent

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Latin America is the scenario of great inequalities where about 32 million human beings live with diabetes. Through this review, we aimed at describing the current state of the prevalence, awareness, treatment, and control of diabetes mellitus and completion of selected guidelines of care across Latin America and identify opportunities to advance research that promotes better health outcomes.

RECENT FINDINGS

The prevalence of diabetes mellitus has been consistently increasing across the region, with some variation: higher prevalence in Mexico, Haiti, and Puerto Rico and lower in Colombia, Ecuador, Dominican Republic, Peru, and Uruguay. Prevalence assessment methods vary, and potentially underestimating the real number of persons with diabetes. Diabetes unawareness varies widely, with up to 50% of persons with diabetes who do not know they may have the disease. Glycemic, blood pressure, and LDL-C control and completion of guidelines to prevent microvascular complications are not consistently assessed across studies, and the achievement of control goals is suboptimal. On the other hand, multiple interventions, point-of-care/rapid assessment tools, and alternative models of health care delivery have been proposed and tested throughout Latin America. The prevalence of diabetes mellitus continues to rise across Latin America, and the number of those with the disease may be underestimated. However, some local governments are embedding more comprehensive diabetes assessments in their local national surveys. Clinicians and public health advocates in the region have proposed and initiated various multi-level interventions to address this enormous challenge in the region.

Quality of life of Latin-American individuals with type 2 diabetes mellitus: A systematic review

OBJECTIVE

Diabetes mellitus is a serious public health problem that causes a decrease in the patients' quality of life. The present study was aimed to analyze the quality of life of patients with diabetes mellitus in Latin-American population through a systematic review, using the two instruments of greater validity and reliability at international level, SF-36 and WHOQOL.

METHODS

We performed extensive searches in Redalyc, SciELO, PubMed, Scopus and Web of Science databases. To delimit our search, we only included countries that are members of the Latin American Association of Diabetes. We identified 2168 articles, where 35 were considered relevant for this systematic review.

RESULTS

Our results showed that patients that regularly receive guidance and treatment to control the diabetes, showed better quality of life; in contrast, patients with foot ulcers or comorbidities showed the worse quality of life.

CONCLUSION

The current literature analysis suggests that this disease greatly influences in the quality of life of the patients.

Population attributable fractions for risk factors for dementia in low-income and middle-income countries: an analysis using cross-sectional survey data

BACKGROUND

Nine potentially modifiable risk factors (less childhood education, midlife hearing loss, hypertension, and obesity, and later-life smoking, depression, physical inactivity, social isolation, and diabetes) account for 35% of worldwide dementia, but most data to calculate these risk factors come from high-income countries only. We aimed to calculate population attributable fractions (PAFs) for dementia in selected low-income and middle-income countries (LMICs) to identify potential dementia prevention targets in these countries.

METHODS

The study was an analysis of cross-sectional data obtained from the 10/66 Dementia Research surveys of representative populations in India, China, and six Latin America countries (Cuba, Dominican Republic, Mexico, Peru, Puerto Rico, and Venezuela), which used identical risk factor ascertainment methods in each country. Between 2004 and 2006 (and between 2007 and 2010 for Puerto Rico), all residents aged 65 years and older in predefined catchment areas were invited to participate in the survey. We used risk factor prevalence estimates from this 10/66 survey data, and relative risk estimates from previous meta-analyses, to calculate PAFs for each risk factor. To account for individuals having overlapping risk factors, we adjusted PAF for communality between risk factors, and used these values to calculate overall weighted PAFs for India, China, and the Latin American sample.

FINDINGS

The overall weighted PAF for potentially modifiable risk factors for dementia was 39·5% (95% CI 37·5-41·6) in China (n=2162 participants), 41·2% (39·1-43·4) in India (n=2004), and 55·8% (54·9-56·7) in our Latin American sample (n=12 865). Five dementia risk factors were more prevalent in these LMICs than worldwide estimates, leading to higher PAFs for dementia: less childhood education (weighted PAF of 10·8% in China, 13·6% in India, and 10·9% in Latin America vs 7·5% worldwide), smoking (14·7%, 6·4%, and 5·7%, respectively, vs 5·5% worldwide), hypertension (6·4%, 4·0%, and 9·3%, vs 2·0%), obesity (5·6%, 2·9%, and 7·9%, vs 0·8%), and diabetes (1·6%, 1·7%, and 3·2%, vs 1·2%).

INTERPRETATION

The dementia prevention potential in India, China, and this sample of Latin American countries is large, and greater than in high-income countries. Less education in early life, hypertension, hearing loss, obesity, and physical inactivity have particularly high PAFs and could be initial targets for dementia prevention strategies.

FUNDING

No funding.

Organisational and individual characteristics associated with glycaemic control among patients with type 2 diabetes: cross-sectional study in China

OBJECTIVE

There is a high prevalence of poor glycaemic control among patients with type 2 diabetes (T2DM) in China. This study aimed to explore both organisational and individual characteristics associated with glycaemic control among patients with T2DM.

DESIGN

Cross-sectional survey.

SETTING

Shandong Province, China.

PARTICIPANTS

The participants were 2166 patients with T2DM and 337 healthcare providers from 36 urban communities and 36 rural villages in Shandong Province.

PRIMARY AND SECONDARY OUTCOME MEASURES

Multistage stratified sampling procedures were used to measure demand-side individual demographic, clinical and self-management characteristics, and supply-side organisational characteristics, and the status of glycaemic control. Multilevel logistic regression analysis was performed to assess key determinants of glycaemic control.

RESULTS

Only 42.8% of the patients with T2DM achieved good glycaemic control. Age, income, hypertension and self-efficacy were significantly positive predictors of optimal glycaemic control, while duration of diabetes, antidiabetic drugs and monitoring of blood glucose were significantly negative predictors of that. Private VCs (OR=0.48, 95% CI 0.29 to 0.82, p<0.01) and lack of healthcare providers (OR=0.69, 95% CI 0.53 to 0.89, p<0.01; OR=0.71, 95% CI 0.52 to 0.98, p<0.05) were significantly negative predictors of optimal glycaemic control, while diabetes knowledge level of healthcare providers (OR=1.36, 95% CI 1.02 to 1.83, p<0.05; OR=1.45, 95% CI 1.00 to 2.10, p<0.05) and kinds of antidiabetic drugs (OR=1.37, 95% CI 0.97 to 1.93, p<0.1; OR=1.46, 95% CI 1.07 to 2.00, p<0.05) were significantly positive predictors of that.

CONCLUSIONS

Glycaemic control was suboptimal among patients with T2DM in China. The determinants of failing to achieve good glycaemic control included both organisational and individual characteristics. Potential interventions that target patients, providers and the healthcare organisations should be taken to improve the glycaemic control and health outcome among patients with T2DM.

Prevalence and incidence of type 1 diabetes in the world: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Background: Diabetes is referred to a group of diseases characterized by high glucose levels in blood. It is caused by a deficiency in the production or function of insulin or both, which can occur because of different reasons, resulting in protein and lipid metabolic disorders. The aim of this study was to systematically review the prevalence and incidence of type 1 diabetes in the world. Methods: A systematic search of resources was conducted to investigate the prevalence and incidence of type 1 diabetes in the world. The databases of Medline (via PubMed and Ovid),ProQuest, Scopus, and Web of Science from January 1980 to September 2019 were searched to locate English articles. The located articles were screened in multiple levels of title, abstract,and full-text and final studies that met the inclusion criteria were retrieved and included in the study. Results: From 1202 located articles, 193 studies were included in this systematic review. The results of meta-analysis showed that the incidence of type 1 diabetes was 15 per 100,000 people and the prevalence was 9.5% (95% CI: 0.07 to 0.12) in the world, which was statistically significant. Conclusion: According to the results, the incidence and prevalence of type 1 diabetes are increasing in the world. As a result, insulin will be difficult to access and afford, especially in underdeveloped and developing countries.

Underpinnings of entangled ethnical and gender inequalities in obesity in Cochabamba-Bolivia: an intersectional approach

Background

Social inequalities in obesity have been observed not only by gender but also between ethnic groups. Evidence on combined dimensions of inequality in health, and specifically including indigenous populations, is however scarce, and presents a particularly daunting challenge for successful prevention and control of obesity in Bolivia, as well as worldwide.

Objective

The aims of this study were i) to examine intersectional inequalities in obesity and ii) to identify the factors underlying the observed intersectional inequalities.

Methods

An intersectional approach study was employed, using the information collected in a cross-sectional community-based survey. The sample consisted of youth and adults with permanent residence in Cochabamba department (N = 5758), selected through a multistage sampling technique. An adapted version of the WHO-STEPS survey was used to collect information about Abdominal obesity and risk factors associated. Four intersectional positions were constructed from gender (woman vs. men) and ethnic group (indigenous vs. mestizo). Joint and excess intersectional disparities in obesity were estimated as absolute prevalence differences between binary groups, using binomial regression models. The Oaxaca-Blinder decomposition was applied to estimate the contributions of explanatory factors underlying the observed intersectional disparities, using Oaxaca command in Stata software v15.1.

Results

The prevalence of abdominal obesity had a higher prevalence in mestizos (men 35.01% and women 30.71%) as compared to indigenous (men 25.38% and women 27.75%). The joint disparity was estimated at 7.26 percentage points higher prevalence in the doubly advantaged mestizo men than in the doubly disadvantaged indigenous women. The gender referent disparity showed that mestizo-women had a higher prevalence than indigenous-women. The ethnic referent disparity showed that mestizo-men had a higher prevalence than indigenous men. The behavioural risk factors were the most important to explain the observed inequalities, while differences in socioeconomic and demographic factors played a less important role.

Conclusion

Our study illustrates that abdominal obesity is not distributed according to expected patterns of structural disadvantage in the intersectional space of ethnicity and gender in Bolivia. In the Cochabamba case, a high social advantage was related to higher rates of abdominal obesity, as well as the behavioural risk factors associated with them.

Survey on hypoglycemia among insulin-treated patients with diabetes: The Colombian International Operations Hypoglycemia Assessment Tool population

Introduction:

The non-interventional International Operations Hypoglycemia Assessment Tool (IO-HAT) study assessed the incidence of hypoglycemia in patients with insulin-treated diabetes across nine countries, including a cohort of patients in Colombia.

Materials and methods:

Hypoglycemia incidence among patients with insulin-treated diabetes was assessed across 26 sites in Colombia. Hypoglycaemic events (any, nocturnal or severe) were reported in self-assessment questionnaires (SAQ) and patient diaries based on capillary blood glucose measurement or symptoms. Retrospective events (severe events 6 months before baseline and any event 4 weeks before baseline) were recorded in SAQ, Part 1, and prospective events (4 weeks from baseline) were recorded in SAQ, Part 2, and patient diaries. Differences in hypoglycemia incidence reported in the retrospective and prospective periods were assessed using two-sided tests.

Results:

Of the 664 patients assessed, 213 had type 1 diabetes (T1D) and 451 had type 2 diabetes (T2D). Nearly all patients experienced at least one hypoglycaemic event in the prospective period (97.1% T1D; 93.3% T2D). Rates of hypoglycemia (events per person- year, PPY) were higher prospectively than retrospectively for any hypoglycemia (T1 D: 121.6 vs. 83.2, p<0.001; T2D: 28.1 vs. 24.6, p=0.127) and severe hypoglycemia (T 1D: 15.3 vs. 9.2, p=0.605; T 2 D: 9.5 vs. 3.5 p=0.040).

Conclusion:

These results, the first from a patient-reported dataset on hypoglycemia in insulin-treated patients with diabetes in Colombia, show that patients reported higher rates of any hypoglycemia during the prospective period.

VASCULAR COMPLICATIONS IN PATIENTS WITH TYPE 2 DIABETES: PREVALENCE AND COMORBIDITIES IN 6 COUNTRIES OF LATIN AMERICA (A COHORT OF THE DISCOVER STUDY PROGRAM)

Objective: To provide real world observational data about glucose control, the burden of diabetes, comorbidities, and cardiovascular risk factors among patients initiating second-line therapy in Latin America (LA). Methods: This report is a cross-sectional analysis of the LA cohort of the DISCOVER study, describing the regional prevalence of microvascular and macrovascular complications in Mexico, Costa Rica, Panama, Colombia, Argentina, and Brazil. Results: One thousand six hundred and sixteen patients were included in 69 investigational sites. Hemoglobin A1c was >7% (42 mmol/mol) in 81.3% of subjects. Macrovascular complications were reported by 13.8% of the subjects. Microvascular conditions were reported in 15.2% of the subjects. The prevalence of hypertension and of hyperlipidemia was 55.5% and 45.9%, respectively. Blood pressure, total cholesterol, and low-density lipoprotein were out of target levels in 38.5%, 51.2%, and 81.7% of the patients, respectively. Overweight or obesity was reported in 83.8% of the cases. Conclusion: Our study shows that patients with type 2 diabetes in LA are not reaching their glucose, lipids, blood pressure, and weight targets. The prevalence of microvascular (15.2%), macrovascular (13.8%), and uncontrolled comorbidities in patients at an early stage of the disease (initiating a second-line therapy) highlights the need for more aggressive risk factor screening as well as treatment in LA. Abbreviations: CV = cardiovascular; CVD = cardiovascular disease; DM = diabetes mellitus; HbA1c = hemoglobin A1c; LA = Latin America/Latin American; LDL = low density cholesterol; T2DM = type 2 diabetes mellitus.

Demographic and clinical characteristics of dominican adults admitted to a diabetic foot clinic in the Dominican Republic, 2015

AIM

To identify the demographic and clinical characteristics of Dominican adults admitted to a diabetic foot clinic and compare these characteristics by sex to better characterize and understand the severity of diabetes in the Dominican Republic.

METHODS

We conducted a retrospective medical chart review of Dominican adults admitted to the National Institute of Diabetes, Endocrinology, and Nutrition's (INDEN) diabetic foot clinic between January 1st, 2015 and December 31st, 2015. We generated descriptive statistics and compared results by sex.

RESULTS

We assessed 447 medical charts of patients admitted in 2015. More men visited the clinic than women (65% vs. 35%). The average duration of diabetes was 14.4 ± 8.9 years. Abscess was the most common foot problem (74% in men, 68% in women, p = 0.164). A slightly smaller proportion of men received amputations than women (46% vs. 51%, p = 0.390). Women were older (p < 0.001), less educated (p = 0.004), and less likely to be married (p < 0.001). Women also exhibited higher rates of obesity (p = 0.003), hypertension (p = 0.005), cardiovascular disease (p = 0.011), ischemic foot (p = 0.008), and above the knee amputations (p = 0.002).

CONCLUSION

Implementation of diabetes education programs, introduction of proper foot care, and improved resources for lifestyle management are needed to increase awareness and subsequently decrease diabetes and its negative impact on the health and economy of the Dominican Republic. Our findings suggest that various risk factors and comorbidities important to the development of diabetes may be disproportionately affecting women. Interventions should focus on women and their behaviors that increase risk for diabetes.

Cardiometabolic diseases

INTRODUCTION

Cardiometabolic diseases are prevalent in populations and are among the leading causes of death. Objective: This sub-study of the Health, Well-being and Aging (SABE) study describes the self-reported prevalence of diabetes mellitus (DM), hypertension, and atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (CVD) for its three waves (2000, 2006, and 2010). It also analyses the associations with selected risk factors.

METHODS

Logistic regression models were performed.

RESULTS

Predominance of women and average age (68 years) were maintained in all the waves. During the period, there was a general tendency of increasing prevalence of hypertension (53.1 to 66.7%), DM (16.7 to 25.0%), and CVD (23.0 to 27.2%); and stabilization of the CVD prevalence rate occurred only from 2006 to 2010. Women, with body mass index (BMI) > 27 kg/m2, and ex-smokers had consistently higher risk of self-reported hypertension across the three waves. BMI >27kg/m2 was also associated with a higher probability of DM in the three waves, whereas with ex-smokers this occurred only in 2010. Ex-smokers presented higher risk of CVD in all the waves, but not excess weight. Wave pairs were analyzed to test changes in prevalence, and it was found a significant increase in diseases rates across the years.

CONCLUSION

In summary, self-reported DM, hypertension, and CVD had high prevalence rates for participants of SABE Study, in São Paulo. The association of elevated BMI with cardiometabolic diseases suggests that body adiposity might favor their occurrence, although the study design does not guarantee a cause and effect relationship. Increased rates of affected individuals from the first to the third wave may reflect improvement in diagnostic conditions and/or control of these diseases' mortality during that period.

FINDRISC Modified for Latin America as a Screening Tool for Persons with Impaired Glucose Metabolism in Ciudad Bolívar, Venezuela

OBJECTIVE

The Finnish Diabetes Risk Score (FINDRISC) includes anthropometric, metabolic, and lifestyle factors that predict type 2 diabetes mellitus. The objective of this study was to evaluate the FINDRISC modified for Latin America (LA-FINDRISC) as a screening tool for persons with impaired glucose metabolism in Ciudad Bolívar, Venezuela.

METHODS

Subjects aged between 18 and 70 years of both sexes without known diabetes were invited to participate. After informed consent, they were screened with the LA-FINDRISC questionnaire and then given an oral glucose tolerance test, using the American Diabetes Association criteria for diagnosis. To obtain the cutoff point of LA-FINDRISC for predicting impaired glucose regulation, a receiver operating characteristic curve was constructed.

RESULTS

A total of 200 subjects were evaluated, 64.5% female, with a mean age of 35.20 ± 13.84 years. Of these, 158 (79%) did not present with carbohydrate metabolism disorder, while 42 (21%) did. Age (p = 0.0001), body mass index (p = 0.011), and waist circumference (p = 0.031) were significantly higher in subjects with impaired glucose regulation when compared to those without it. There were a significantly greater number of sedentary (p = 0.039) and hypertensive subjects (p = 0.0001), as well as those with a history of glucose >100 mg/dL (p = 0.0001), in the impaired glucose metabolism group. A cutoff LA-FINDRISC of 14 points predicted a high risk of impaired glucose regulation with a sensitivity of 45.2% and a specificity of 89.9%.

CONCLUSION

A LA-FINDRISC >14 points had low sensitivity but high specificity for predicting carbohydrate metabolism disorders in this group of patients from Ciudad Bolívar.

Diabetes education and health insurance: How they affect the quality of care provided to people with type 1 diabetes in Latin America. Data from the International Diabetes Mellitus Practices Study (IDMPS)

AIMS

This study aimed to evaluate the impact of diabetes education and access to healthcare coverage on disease management and outcomes in Latin America.

METHODS

Data were obtained from a sub-analysis of 2693 patients with type 1 diabetes mellitus recruited from 9 Latin American countries as part of the International Diabetes Mellitus Practices Study (IDMPS), a multinational, observational survey of diabetes treatment in developing regions.

RESULTS

Results from the Latin American cohort show that only 25% of participants met HbA1c target value (< 7% [53 mmol/mol]). Attainment of this target was significantly higher among participants who had received diabetes education than those who hadn't (28% vs. 19%, p < 0.001), and among those who practiced self-management (27% vs. 21% no self-management, p = 0.001). Multivariate analysis showed that participants who had received diabetes education were more likely to manage their diabetes (OR:1.65 [95% CI: 1.24, 2.19]; p = 0.001), and to attain HbA1c target values (OR:1.48 [95% CI: 1.14, 1.93]; p = 0.003).

CONCLUSIONS

Given the association between uncontrolled diabetes and long-term complications, health authorities and care providers should increase efforts to ensure widespread healthcare coverage and access to self-management education to reduce the socioeconomic and humanistic burden of type 1 diabetes.

Efficacy and Safety of Sitagliptin in Hispanic/Latino Patients with Type 2 Diabetes: A Pooled Analysis from Ten Randomized, Placebo-Controlled Phase 3 Clinical Trials

INTRODUCTION

To assess the efficacy and safety profile of the dipeptidyl-peptidase-4 inhibitor sitagliptin in a population of self-identified Hispanic/Latino patients with type 2 diabetes.

METHODS

Data were pooled from ten randomized, double-blind studies in which subjects were treated with sitagliptin 100 mg/day (as mono- or combination therapy) or placebo, and used to evaluate the glycemic efficacy, safety, and tolerability of sitagliptin compared with placebo after 24 weeks of treatment.

RESULTS

A total of 804 Hispanic/Latino patients were included in the analysis. Baseline characteristics in the treatment groups were similar (mean baseline HbA1c of approximately 8.5%). The LS mean HbA1c changes from baseline were - 0.94% with sitagliptin and - 0.32% with placebo, and the between-group difference was - 0.62%, p < 0.001. After 24 weeks of treatment, 35% and 18% of subjects were at the HbA1c goal of < 7% in the sitagliptin and placebo groups, respectively. Body weight increased slightly in both treatment groups. Incidences of adverse events of hypoglycemia were similar and low (1.9% and 1.4% for sitagliptin and placebo, respectively) in both groups in studies in which insulin or sulfonylurea were not used and were similar (9% and 11% for sitagliptin and placebo, respectively) when all studies were included. Overall safety and tolerability of treatment with sitagliptin and placebo were similar. No clinically meaningful differences between the safety profile of sitagliptin in the Hispanic/Latino population analyzed here and broader populations previously evaluated were observed.

CONCLUSION

In this pooled analysis of sitagliptin therapy vs placebo in Hispanic/Latino patients, sitagliptin provided significant improvement in glycemic control and was generally well tolerated.

FUNDING

Merck & Co., Inc., Kenilworth, NJ, USA.

Diabetes in Panama: Epidemiology, Risk Factors, and Clinical Management

OBJECTIVES

To draw evidence-based conclusions about the epidemiology, drivers, and management of diabetes in Panama based on a literature review and original analyses of large databases.

METHODS

A search about diabetes in Panama was conducted through PubMed. We used the final reports of 2 studies: the first Survey of Health and Life Quality, 2007, and the first Survey of Risk Factors Associated to Cardiovasular Diseases, 2010-2011, conducted in Panama and analyzed the databases. We reviewed the approach adopted by the Panamanian Social Security institution and the diabetes national guidelines published by the Panamanian Ministry of Health.

FINDINGS

The prevalence of diabetes, as estimated in 1 database (ENSCAVI), was 5.4% (4.3% men; 6.0% women; OR = 1.41 [confidence interval 1.26-1.59]; P < 0.0001), with the highest prevalence in urbanized regions. In another database (PREFREC), prevalence was 9.5% (10.3% men and 9.1% women), again higher in urbanized regions, but also in males, older adults, and Afro-Panamanians. Obesity, abdominal obesity, physical inactivity, family history of diabetes, high blood pressure, and triglycerides ≥ 150 mg/dL were associated as risk factors for diabetes in both genders (P < 0.0001). Total cholesterol ≥ 200 mg/dL and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol < 40 mg/dL were risk factors in men (P < 0.0001). In the last 5 years, diabetes was ranked between the sixth and fifth cause of death in Panama. In response, the Panamanian Social Security created the "Program for Prevention and Control of Diabetes" to strengthen primary health care.

CONCLUSIONS

Diabetes is a serious national public health threat in Panama. To address this problem in a public health modality, information from large databases was analyzed and presented to the Panamanian Ministry of Health to prompt constructive policy change to enhance diabetes prevention.

An Epidemiologic Analysis of Diabetes in Colombia

BACKGROUND

The burden of diabetes is a global problem, wherein the significant growth of diabetes in Colombia reflects a complex pathophysiology and epidemiology found in many other South American nations.

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this study was to analyze epidemiologic data from Colombia and the South American region in general to identify certain disease drivers and target them for intervention to curb the increasing prevalence of diabetes.

METHODS

A detailed search was conducted using MEDLINE, SciELO, HINARI, LILACS, IMBIOMED, and Latindex databases, in addition to clinical practice guidelines, books, manuals, and other files containing relevant and verified information on diabetes in Colombia.

FINDINGS

According to the International Diabetes Federation and the World Health Organization, the prevalence of diabetes in Colombia is 7.1% and 8.5%, respectively. In contrast, a national survey in Colombia shows a prevalence ranging from 1.84% to 11.2%, depending on how the diagnosis is made, the criteria used, and the age range studied. The prevalence exclusively in rural areas ranges from 1.4% to 7.9% and in urban areas from 1% to 46%. The estimated mean overall (direct and indirect) cost attributed to type 2 diabetes is 5.7 billion Colombian pesos (US $2.7 million). Diabetes is the fifth leading cause of death in Colombia with a rate of 15 deaths per 100,000 individuals.

CONCLUSIONS

Based on a clustering of factors, 4 relevant disease drivers emerge that may account for the epidemiology of diabetes in Colombia: demographic transition, nutritional transition, forced displacement/internal migration and urban development, and promotion of physical activity.

From Sea to Shining Sea and the Great Plains to Patagonia: A Review on Current Knowledge of Diabetes Mellitus in Hispanics/Latinos in the US and Latin America

The past two decades have witnessed many advances in the prevention, treatment, and control of diabetes mellitus (DM) and its complications. Increased screening has led to a greater recognition of type 2 diabetes mellitus (type 2 DM) and prediabetes; however, Hispanics/Latinos, the largest minority group in the US, have not fully benefited from these advances. The Hispanic/Latino population is highly diverse in ancestries, birth places, cultures, languages, and socioeconomic backgrounds, and it populates most of the Western Hemisphere. In the US, the prevalence of DM varies among Hispanic/Latino heritage groups, being higher among Mexicans, Puerto Ricans, and Dominicans, and lower among South Americans. The risk and prevalence of diabetes among Hispanics/Latinos are significantly higher than in non-Hispanic Whites, and nearly 40% of Hispanics/Latinos with diabetes have not been formally diagnosed. Despite these striking facts, the representation of Hispanics/Latinos in pharmacological and non-pharmacological clinical trials has been suboptimal, while the prevalence of diabetes in these populations continues to rise. This review will focus on the epidemiology, etiology and prevention of type 2 DM in populations of Latin American origin. We will set the stage by defining the terms Hispanic, Latino, and Latin American, explaining the challenges identifying Hispanics/Latinos in the scientific literature and databases, describing the epidemiology of diabetes-including type 2 DM and gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM)-and cardiovascular risk factors in Hispanics/Latinos in the US and Latin America, and discussing trends, and commonalities and differences across studies and populations, including methodology to ascertain diabetes. We will discuss studies on mechanisms of disease, and research on prevention of type 2 DM in Hispanics/Latinos, including women with GDM, youth and adults; and finalize with a discussion on lessons learned and opportunities to enhance research, and, consequently, clinical care oriented toward preventing type 2 DM in Hispanics/Latinos in the US and Latin America.

Transculturalizing Diabetes Prevention in Latin America

BACKGROUND

Type 2 diabetes (T2D) imposes a heavy burden in developing countries, requiring effective primary prevention policies. Randomized clinical trials have identified successful strategies in T2D prevention. However, translating these results to real-life scenarios and adapting to ethnocultural differences is a major challenge. Transculturalization allows incorporating cultural factors to diabetes prevention strategies to optimize implementation of clinical trials results. The purpose of this paper is to review the transcultural adaptations developed for T2D prevention in Latin America (LA).

METHODS

A comprehensive literature review spanning 1960-2016 was performed, using "Diabetes," "Latin America," "Prevention," "Screening," and "Tools" as key words.

RESULTS

Two major tasks are underway in LA: adaptation of screening tools for high-risk individuals, and implementation of diabetes prevention programs. The Finnish Diabetes Risk Score (FINDRISC) is the most widely used screening tool to detect new cases of T2D and people with prediabetes, and it has been adapted (LA-FINDRISC) to include the waist circumference cutoff values appropriate for LA population (≥94 cm for men and ≥90 cm for women). The validation of the LA-FINDRISC performance depends on the local characteristics. A LA-FINDRISC score >10 may be the best cutoff to identify individuals with impaired glucose regulation in population-based studies, but a higher score (>12-14) might be more appropriate in a clinical setting. A shorter version of the FINDRISC using only the 4 variables with highest impact has been developed and validated in Colombia (ColDRISC). The translation of the Diabetes Prevention Program study in a Latino population in Venezuela found a significant improvement in cardiometabolic risk factors. An adaptation of the Diabetes Prevention Study in the DEMOJUAN study in Barranquilla, Colombia, reduced 2-hour postload glucose.

CONCLUSION

Successful transculturalization strategies have been implemented in screening tools and prevention programs in LA.

Effectiveness and clinical inertia in patients with antidiabetic therapy

AIMS

To establish the effectiveness of antidiabetic therapy and the frequency of clinical inertia in the management of type 2 diabetes mellitus in Colombia.

METHODS

A cross-sectional study with follow-up of patients who had been treated for at least 1 year and were receiving medical consultation for antidiabetic treatment. Effectiveness was established when haemoglobin-A1c levels were <7% and when clinical inertia was reached, which was defined as no therapeutic modifications despite not achieving management controls. Sociodemographic, clinical and pharmacological variables were evaluated, and multivariate analyses were performed.

RESULTS

In total, 363 patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus were evaluated, with a mean age of 62.0±12.2 years. A total of 1,016 consultations were evaluated, and the therapy was effective at the end of the follow-up in 57.9% of cases. Clinical inertia was found in 56.8% of patients who did not have metabolic control. The most frequently prescribed medications were metformin (84.0%), glibenclamide (23.4%) and insulin glargine (20.7%). Moreover, 57.6% of the patients were treated with two or more antidiabetic medications. Having metabolic control in the first consult of the follow-up was a protective factor against clinical inertia in the subsequent consultations (OR: 0.08; 95%CI: 0.04-0.15; P<.001).

CONCLUSIONS

The effectiveness of treatment for patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus has increased in Colombia, and for the first time, clinical inertia was identifiable and quantifiable and found in similar proportions to other countries. Clinical inertia is a relevant condition given that it interferes with the possibility of controlling this pathology.

Using genetics to inform new therapeutics for diabetes

The genetic architecture of diabetes has been extensively studied. Numerous genetic markers for diabetes have been reported. However, the translation of such knowledge into clinical interventions has been inadequate. Areas covered: We performed a literature search on various frontiers in diabetes treatment that could be improved using genetic information: (1) understanding the mechanisms of existing antidiabetic drugs, (2) repurposing existing drugs for the treatment of diabetes, (3) complementing clinical trial findings; (4) finding novel treatment approaches; (5) better estimation of the efficacy of metabolic surgery. Expert commentary: The translation of genetic information to clinical intervention requires further study, including the development of an appropriate genetic risk score algorithm for type 2 diabetes. Genomic studies provide empirical explanations for clinical trial findings. Moreover, the mechanisms of antidiabetic drugs should be thoroughly investigated to enable clinical trials and pharmacogenomics studies of these drugs. As metabolic surgery becomes more prevalent for the treatment of diabetes, genetic approaches may improve patient prioritization.

The effects of exenatide twice daily compared to insulin lispro added to basal insulin in Latin American patients with type 2 diabetes: A retrospective analysis of the 4B trial

AIMS

Socioeconomic changes in Latin American countries have led to an increased prevalence of type 2 diabetes (T2D). We examined the effects of exenatide twice daily (BID) or insulin lispro, each added to insulin glargine, in Latin American patients with T2D.

METHODS

This was a subgroup analysis of patients from Argentina and Mexico in the 4B study (N=114). Patients with glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) of 7.0-10.0% (53-86mmol/mol) after 12weeks of intensive basal insulin optimization were randomized to exenatide BID or thrice-daily insulin lispro added to insulin glargine and metformin.

RESULTS

After 30weeks, addition of exenatide BID or insulin lispro resulted in significant (P<0.0001) reductions in HbA1c (exenatide BID: -0.9% [-10mmol/mol]; insulin lispro: -1.2% [-13mmol/mol]). Weight was stable in the exenatide BID group (-0.1kg) and increased significantly (+3.4kg; P<0.0001) with insulin lispro. Major and minor hypoglycemia occurred less frequently (40 vs. 253 events) with exenatide BID compared with insulin lispro. Gastrointestinal adverse events of nausea, diarrhea, and vomiting occurred more frequently with exenatide BID than with insulin lispro.

CONCLUSIONS

Both exenatide BID and prandial insulin lispro, each added to basal insulin glargine, were effective at reducing HbA1c in Latin American patients. Treatment with exenatide BID resulted in stable weight but more gastrointestinal adverse events. Treatment with insulin lispro resulted in weight gain and an increased risk of hypoglycemia. These findings support the addition of exenatide BID to insulin glargine as an option for Latin American patients unable to achieve glycemic control on basal insulin alone.

Metabolic control in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus in a public hospital in Peru: a cross-sectional study in a low-middle income country

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this study was to assess patients' achievement of ADA (American Diabetes Association) guideline recommendations for glycosylated hemoglobin, lipid profile, and blood pressure in a type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) outpatient clinic in a low-middle income country (LMIC) setting.

METHODS

This is a descriptive cross-sectional study with 123 ambulatory T2DM patients who are being treated at a public hospital in Lima, Peru. Data was gathered via standardized interviews, clinical surveys, and anthropomorphic measurements for each patient. Blood samples were drawn in fasting state for measures of glucose, glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c), and lipid profile. Laboratory parameters and blood pressure were evaluated according to ADA recommendations.

RESULTS

Of the 123 patients, 81 were women and the mean age was 61.8 years. Glycemic control was abnormal in 82 (68.33%) participants, and 45 (37.50%) were unable to control their blood pressure. Lipid profile was abnormal in 73 (60.83%) participants. Only nine (7.50%) participants fulfilled ADA recommendations for glycemic, blood pressure, and lipid control.

CONCLUSIONS

Amongst individuals with type 2 diabetes, there was poor attainment of the ADA recommendations (HbA1c, blood pressure and LDL-cholesterol) for ambulatory T2DM patients. Interventions are urgently needed in order to prevent long-term diabetic complications.

Implementation and Outcomes of a Comprehensive Type 2 Diabetes Program in Rural Guatemala

Background

The burden of chronic, non-communicable diseases such as diabetes is growing rapidly in low- and middle-income countries. Implementing management programs for diabetes and other chronic diseases for underserved populations is thus a critical global health priority. However, there is a notable dearth of shared programmatic and outcomes data from diabetes treatment programs in these settings.

Program Description

We describe our experiences as a non-governmental organization designing and implementing a type 2 diabetes program serving Maya indigenous people in rural Guatemala. We detail the practical challenges and solutions we have developed to build and sustain diabetes programming in this setting.

Methods

We conduct a retrospective chart review from our electronic medical record to evaluate our program’s performance. We generate a cohort profile, assess cross-sectional indicators using a framework adapted from the literature, and report on clinical longitudinal outcomes.

Results

A total of 142 patients were identified for the chart review. The cohort showed a decrease in hemoglobin A1C from a mean of 9.2% to 8.1% over an average of 2.1 years of follow-up (p <0.001). The proportions of patients meeting glycemic targets were 53% for hemoglobin A1C < 8% and 32% for the stricter target of hemoglobin A1C < 7%.

Conclusion

We first offer programmatic experiences to address a gap in resources relating to the practical issues of designing and implementing global diabetes management interventions. We then present clinical data suggesting that favorable diabetes outcomes can be attained in poor areas of rural Guatemala.

Type 2 diabetes mellitus as a risk factor for dementia in a Mexican population

INTRODUCTION

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and dementia increase with age. Different studies have explored their association, but the possible relationship between them is still unclear.

METHODS

This is an analysis of the 10/66 Dementia Research Group (DRG) Mexico database; the sample comprised 1193 subjects ≥65 years old followed-up for three years. We calculated the incidence of dementia in subjects with diabetes using three models of analysis.

RESULTS

T2DM patients have nearly twice the risk of developing dementia (RR 1.9; 95% CI 1.3-2.6) after three years of follow-up. The incidence of dementia is higher in subjects with undiagnosed diabetes. Higher serum glucose levels have a stronger association with dementia.

CONCLUSIONS

It is important to implement early evaluation and monitoring cognitive performance in elders with diabetes to identify minor cognitive impairment and undertake timely interventions to prevent or delay the onset of dementia.

Detecting Dysglycemia Using the 2015 United States Preventive Services Task Force Screening Criteria: A Cohort Analysis of Community Health Center Patients

BACKGROUND

In 2015, the United States Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) recommended targeted screening for prediabetes and diabetes (dysglycemia) in adults who are aged 40 to 70 y old and overweight or obese. Given increasing prevalence of dysglycemia at younger ages and lower body weight, particularly among racial/ethnic minorities, we sought to determine whether the current screening criteria may fail to identify some high-risk population subgroups.

METHODS AND FINDINGS

We investigated the performance of the 2015 USPSTF screening recommendation in detecting dysglycemia among US community health center patients. A retrospective analysis of electronic health record (EHR) data from 50,515 adult primary care patients was conducted. Longitudinal EHR data were collected in six health centers in the Midwest and Southwest. Patients with a first office visit between 2008 and 2010 were identified and followed for up to 3 y through 2013. We excluded patients who had dysglycemia at baseline and those with fewer than two office visits during the follow-up period. The exposure of interest was eligibility for screening according to the 2015 USPSTF criteria. The primary outcome was development of dysglycemia during follow-up, determined by: (1) laboratory results (fasting/2-h postload/random glucose ≥ 100/140/200 mg/dL [5.55/7.77/11.10 mmol/L] or hemoglobin A1C ≥ 5.7% [39 mmol/mol]); (2) diagnosis codes for prediabetes or type 2 diabetes; or (3) antidiabetic medication order. At baseline, 18,846 (37.3%) participants were aged ≥40 y, 33,537 (66.4%) were overweight or obese, and 39,061 (77.3%) were racial/ethnic minorities (34.6% Black, 33.9% Hispanic/Latino, and 8.7% Other). Overall, 29,946 (59.3%) patients had a glycemic test within 3 y of follow-up, and 8,478 of them developed dysglycemia. Only 12,679 (25.1%) patients were eligible for screening according to the 2015 USPSTF criteria, which demonstrated the following sensitivity and specificity (95% CI): 45.0% (43.9%-46.1%) and 71.9% (71.3%-72.5%), respectively. Racial/ethnic minorities were significantly less likely to be eligible for screening yet had higher odds of developing dysglycemia than whites (odds ratio [95% CI]: Blacks 1.24 [1.09-1.40]; Hispanics 1.46 [1.30-1.64]; and Other 1.33 [1.16-1.54]). In addition, the screening criteria had lower sensitivity in all racial/ethnic minority groups compared to whites. Limitations of this study include the ascertainment of dysglycemia only among patients with available test results and findings that may not be generalizable at the population level.

CONCLUSIONS

Targeted diabetes screening based on new USPSTF criteria may detect approximately half of adult community health center patients with undiagnosed dysglycemia and proportionately fewer racial/ethnic minorities than whites. Future research is needed to estimate the performance of these screening criteria in population-based samples.

Sex Differences in Diabetes Mellitus Mortality Trends in Brazil, 1980-2012

Aims

To investigate the hypothesis that the change from the female predominance of diabetes mellitus to a standard of equality or even male preponderance can already be observed in Brazilian mortality statistics.

Methods

Data on deaths for which diabetes mellitus was listed as the underlying cause were obtained from the Brazilian Mortality Information System for the years 1980 to 2012. The mortality data were also analyzed according to the multiple causes of death approach from 2001 to 2012. The population data came from the Brazilian Institute of Geography and Statistics. The mortality rates were standardized to the world population. We used a log-linear joinpoint regression to evaluate trends in age-standardized mortality rates (ASMR).

Results

From 1980 to 2012, we found a marked increment in the diabetes ASMR among Brazilian men and a less sharp increase in the rate among women, with the latter period (2003–2012) showing a slight decrease among women, though it was not statistically significant.

Conclusions

The results of this study suggest that diabetes mellitus in Brazil has changed from a pattern of higher mortality among women compared to men to equality or even male predominance.

Medicinal plants used in the traditional management of diabetes and its sequelae in Central America: A review

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Globally 387 million people currently have diabetes and it is projected that this condition will be the 7th leading cause of death worldwide by 2030. As of 2012, its total prevalence in Central America (8.5%) was greater than the prevalence in most Latin American countries and the population of this region widely use herbal medicine. The aim of this study is to review the medicinal plants used to treat diabetes and its sequelae in seven Central American countries: Belize, Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Nicaragua and Panama.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We conducted a literature review and extracted from primary sources the plant use reports in traditional remedies that matched one of the following disease categories: diabetes mellitus, kidney disease, urinary problems, skin diseases and infections, cardiovascular disease, sexual dysfunctions, visual loss, and nerve damage. Use reports were entered in a database and data were analysed in terms of the highest number of use reports for diabetes management and for the different sequelae. We also examined the scientific evidence that might support the local uses of the most reported species.

RESULTS

Out of 535 identified species used to manage diabetes and its sequelae, 104 species are used to manage diabetes and we found in vitro and in vivo preclinical experimental evidence of hypoglycaemic effect for 16 of the 20 species reported by at least two sources. However, only seven of these species are reported in more than 3 studies: Momordica charantia L., Neurolaena lobata (L.) R. Br. ex Cass., Tecoma stans (L.) Juss. ex Kunth, Persea americana Mill., Psidium guajava L., Anacardium occidentale L. and Hamelia patens Jacq. Several of the species that are used to manage diabetes in Central America are also used to treat conditions that may arise as its consequence such as kidney disease, urinary problems and skin conditions.

CONCLUSION

This review provides an overview of the medicinal plants used to manage diabetes and its sequelae in Central America and of the current scientific knowledge that might explain their traditional use. In Central America a large number of medicinal plants are used to treat this condition and its sequelae, although relatively few species are widely used across the region. For the species used to manage diabetes, there is variation in the availability and quality of pharmacological, chemical and clinical studies to explain traditional use.

Prevalence of diabetes and impaired fasting glucose in Peru: report from PERUDIAB, a national urban population-based longitudinal study

OBJECTIVES

We aimed to estimate the prevalences of diabetes and impaired fasting glucose (IFG) in a national sample in Peru and assess the relationships with selected sociodemographic variables.

METHODS

We estimated prevalence in PERUDIAB study participants, a nationwide, stratified urban and suburban population selected by random cluster sampling. Between 2010 and 2012, questionnaires were completed and blood tests obtained from 1677 adults ≥25 years of age. Known diabetes was defined as participants having been told so by a doctor or nurse and/or receiving insulin or oral antidiabetic agents. Newly diagnosed diabetes was defined as fasting plasma glucose ≥126 mg/dL determined during the study and without a previous diabetes diagnosis. IFG was defined as fasting plasma glucose of 100-125 mg/dL.

RESULTS

The estimated national prevalence of diabetes was 7.0% (95% CI 5.3% to 8.7%) and it was 8.4% (95% CI 5.6% to 11.3%) in metropolitan Lima. No gender differences were detected. Known and newly diagnosed diabetes prevalences were estimated as 4.2% and 2.8%, respectively. A logistic regression response surface model showed a complex trend for an increased prevalence of diabetes in middle-aged individuals and in those with no formal education. Diabetes prevalence was higher in coastal (8.2%) than in highlands (4.5%; p=0.03), and jungle (3.5%; p<0.02) regions. The estimated national prevalence of IFG was 22.4%, higher in males than in females (28.3% vs 19.1%; p<0.001), and higher in coastal (26.4%) than in highlands (17.4%; p=0.03), but not jungle regions (14.9%; p=0.07).

CONCLUSIONS

This study confirms diabetes as an important public health problem, especially for middle-aged individuals and those with no formal education. 40% of the affected individuals were undiagnosed. The elevated prevalence of IFG shows that nearly a quarter of the adult population of Peru has an increased risk of diabetes.

Long-Term Diabetes Mellitus Is Associated with an Increased Risk of Pancreatic Cancer: A Meta-Analysis

Purpose

Previous studies have shown a bidirectional relationship between diabetes and pancreatic cancer (PC). In particular, new-onset diabetes might be induced by PC, and people with long-term diabetes might be at increased risk for the development of PC. The purpose of our study was to examine whether long-term diabetes represented an independent risk factor for PC development.

Methodology

A literature search was performed by searching electronic databases for studies published before July 1, 2014, and relative risks (RRs) and corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated. Data pertaining to diabetes were recorded at both individual and study levels, with RRs calculated separately to analyze the relationship between the duration of diabetes and the development of PC.

Results

Forty-four studies were included in this meta-analysis, including 18 studies with a case-control design, 5 with a nested case-control design and 21 with a cohort design. The overall summary estimate for the relationship between the population with a duration of diabetes ≥2 years and PC was 1.64 (1.52-1.78). The pooled RR (95% CI) of PC for the population with a duration of diabetes ≥5 years was 1.58 (1.42-1.75). For the population with a duration of diabetes ≥10 years, the RR (95% CI) of PC was 1.50 (1.28-1.75).

Conclusions

Our study suggests that long-term diabetes mellitus is associated with an increased risk of PC. However, the level of risk is negatively correlated with increasing diabetes mellitus duration.

Cellular and molecular aspects of diabetic nephropathy; the role of VEGF-A

The prevalence of diabetes mellitus increased during the last century and it is estimated that 45% of the patients are not diagnosed. In South America the prevalence of diabetes and chronic kidney disease (CKD) increased, with a great disparity among the countries with respect to access to dialysis. In Ecuador it is one of the main causes of mortality, principally in the provinces located on the coast of the Pacific Ocean. The greatest single cause of beginning dialysis is diabetic nephropathy (DN). Even using the best therapeutic options for DN, the residual risk of proteinuria and of terminal CKD remains high. In this review we indicate the importance of the problem globally and in our region. We analyse relevant cellular and molecular studies that illustrate the crucial significance of glomerular events in DN development and evolution and in insulin resistance. We include basic anatomical, pathophysiological and clinical concepts, with special attention to the role of angiogenic factors such as the vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF-A) and their relationship to the insulin receptor, endothelial isoform of nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) and angiopoietins. We also propose various pathways that have therapeutic potential in our opinion. Greater in-depth study of VEGF-A and angiopoietins, the state of glomerular VEGF resistance, the relationship of VEGF receptor 2/nephrin, VEGF/insulin receptors/nephrin and the relationship of VEGF/eNOS-NO at glomerular level could provide solutions to the pressing world problem of DN and generate new treatment alternatives.

Time to and factors associated with insulin initiation in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus

AIMS

Determine the time between the start of oral antidiabetic therapy (OAD) and the initiation of insulin therapy and to establish factors associated with insulin prescription among patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) in Colombia.

METHODS

Cohort, retrospective, population-based study. We identify patients with T2DM who started OAD therapy between 1 January 2007 and 31 December 2008, and a 5-year follow-up was performed. Kaplan-Meier survival analysis for time to start insulin therapy was generated and factors associated with insulin initiation were determined using logistic regression.

RESULTS

A total of 1042 patients (52.4% women), mean age 63.4 years at the start of pharmacological treatment. After 5 years, 272 patients (26.1%) initiated insulin therapy. Using combination therapy of metformin and glibenclamide was associated with greater risk of insulin initiation (OR: 1.64, 95% CI: 1.12-2.40, p=0.010), while being a male over 45 years of age (OR: 0.59, 95% CI: 0.37-0.96, p=0.034) and initiating OAD therapy with metformin (OR: 0.30, 95% CI: 0.20-0.46, p<0.001) reduced the risk of insulin use.

CONCLUSIONS

After 5 years of OAD treatment, 26.1% of people with T2DM started insulin therapy. Age, sex and type of initial OAD affected the probability of switching to insulin in these patients in Colombia.