Diabetes: the by-product of westernization in Papua New Guinea.

Before the 1960s diabetes was rare in Papua New Guinea. But by late 1970s there was evidence that diabetes type 2 was increasing among some urban dwellers. The problem is getting worse and in some urban communities the prevalence of diabetes has doubled within 14 years. Unfortunately no one knows the exact magnitude of the problem. Secondly there are simply not enough resources to handle the current known cases. This is compounded by the fact that many Papua New Guineans welcome western lifestyle with open arms. A change of eating habits and lifestyle is vital if any change is to be made to this by-product of westernization.