Authors: P Phillips¹; D Wilson²; J Beilby³; A Taylor²; E Rosenfeld¹; W Hill¹; J Parsons²

Source: International Journal of Epidemiology, Volume 27, Number 5, October 1998 , pp. 853-859(7)

Publisher: Oxford University Press

Abstract:

Background.This study aimed to explore the relationship between complications and risk factors in the type 2 diabetes population, and to assess the level of assistance people with diabetes receive in controlling their risk factors.

Methods.Participants were recruited from representative population surveys of South Australians aged over 18 years. Participants were asked a series of questions about their risk factors and the advice and assistance they received from their general practitioner (GP) in modifying their risk factors. Additionally, participants were clinically tested for a number of macro and microvascular complications.

Results.South Australians with type 2 diabetes have a high prevalence of risk factors, with the majority being overweight or obese, doing no vigorous exercise and having high blood pressure. They also have a high prevalence of complications, with 53% having at least one macrovascular complication and 66% having at least one microvascular complication. Additionally, participants reported high levels of GP advice and assistance on the risk factors where pharmacological controls were available, but low levels of assistance where non-pharmacological interventions were needed to control the risk factor.

Conclusions.The prevalence of diabetes risk factors and complications among South Australians with type 2 diabetes is a cause for concern, as is the lack of assistance offered by GPs to modify risk factors. Multi-disciplinary approaches to the control of risk factors and patient self-management and education are critical to the progression and success of diabetes care.

Keywords:Type 2 diabetes, risk factors, complications, Australia

Document Type: Research article

Affiliations: 1: Endocrine & Diabetes Service, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Woodville Road, Woodville, South Australia 5011 2: Behavioural Epidemiology Unit, South Australian Health Commission, PO Box 6, Rundle Mall, Adelaide, South Australia 5000 3: Department of General Practice, University of Adelaide, North Terrace, Adelaide, South Australia 5000

Publication date: 1998-10-01

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• The International Journal of Epidemiology is an essential requirement for anyone who needs to keep up to date with epidemiological advances and new developments throughout the world. It encourages communication among those engaged in the research, teaching, and application of epidemiology of both communicable and non-communicable disease, including research into health services and medical care.

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