Trends in diabetes prevalence among American Indian and Alaska native children, adolescents, and young adults

Objectives. This study determined trends in diabetes prevalence among young American Indians and Alaska Natives. Methods. American Indian and Alaska Native children (< 15 years), adolescents (15-19 years), and young adults (20-34 years) with diabetes were identified from the Indian Health Service (IHS) outpatient database. The population living within IHS contract health service delivery areas was determined from census data. Results. From 1990 to 1998, the total number of young American Indians and Alaska Natives with diagnosed diabetes increased by 71% (4534 to 7736); prevalence increased by 46% (6.4 per 1000 to 9.3 per 1000 population). Increases in prevalence were greater among adolescents and among young men. Conclusions. Diabetes should be considered a major public health problem among young American Indians and Alaska Natives.