[Diabetes in international perspective].

Diabetes mellitus is becoming more widespread, as a result of a growing and ageing world population, and the fact that people with diabetes, particularly type 1, live longer than before. There is also, however, a rising incidence, both of type 1 and type 2 diabetes. The reasons for the increasing incidence of type 1 diabetes are unknown, whereas the rising incidence of type 2 is caused by rising urbanisation, particularly in developing countries. The prevalence of type 2 diabetes is higher in many developing countries than in the industrialised North. The reasons for this is unknown; genetics may play a role. At present, much interest is given to the theory that early (in uteri) undernutrition with subsequent low birth weight predisposes for later type 2 diabetes and the other diseases of the "metabolic syndrome". Unavailability of insulin is a major problem for people with type 1 diabetes in many developing countries. This is due to the high cost of insulin, general poverty, underdeveloped infrastructure, lack of education and social services. The supply of insulin is often not given priority by the health authorities. The International Diabetes Federation, with 172 member associations in 134 countries, represents people with diabetes and their health care professionals on the international arena, and works to strengthen its member associations.