Prevalence of diabetes and glycemic control in Mexico: national results from 2018 and 2020

Abstract

Objective: To estimate the prevalence of diabetes (diagnosed and undiagnosed), glycemic control in Mexico, and its associated factors.

Materials and methods: We used data from Ensanut 2018 (n12 648) and 2020 (n2 309). We defined diabetes as fasting glucose 126 mgdl or HbA1c6.5 or previously diagnosed; glycemic control was defined as HbA1c7. We fitted Poisson regression models to assess the association between diabetes, glycemic control, and potential associated factors.

Results: The total prevalence of diabetes was 16.8 in 2018 and 15.7 in 2020. In 2018, 38 of adults with diabetes were unaware of their disease, while in 2020 this figure was 29. Glycemic control was observed in 42 of participants in 2018 and 39 in 2020. Longer disease duration was associated with lower glycemic control, while older age, having a diet, and being affiliated to IMSS, Pemex, Sedena, or private healthcare were associated with better control.

Conclusion: Mexico is among the countries with the highest diabetes prevalence. A high proportion of adults with diabetes did not have a previous diagnosis, and the proportion with glycemic control is low. Strengthening screening to achieve a timely diagnosis, and improving glycemic control, should be key actions in the management of diabetes.