[Diabetes mellitus in Germany. Review of the situation according to the 2003 Telephone Health Survey].

Diabetes mellitus is one of the most prevalent endocrine disorders in Germany. Secondary diseases and complications have serious effects on the lives of diabetics. They also represent an important challenge for economic and health policy processes. According to the 2003 Telephone Health Survey, the prevalence of diabetes mellitus among the population aged 18 years and older is 6.1% for women and 5.4% for men. The percentage of diabetics among older population groups is considerably higher (65+: 16%). The need for effective health care for diabetes patients is reflected in frequent medical consultations. At the same time, there are deficiencies in the treatment of diabetes, for example in HbA1c measurement and the examination of diabetics' ocular fundus and feet. Although special training courses for diabetics are well publicized, only one in two diabetics makes use of them. Future surveys will show whether disease management programmes can help bridge the existing health care gaps.