What do epidemiologic observations tell us about the etiology of insulin dependent diabetes mellitus?

Noninsulin dependent diabetes mellitus (NIDDM) is associated with an entirely different set of genetic alterations from insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus (IDDM). Over 90% of IDDM carry HLA type DR3, DR4 or both. Several theories have been proposed to explain how the genetic alterations are translated into a beta cell destructive process. All involve the elaboration of a beta cell autoantigen. A major current research focus is on the development of pharmacologic approaches to the control of the beta cell destructive process (cyclosporine A). This has led to a shift in interest to the early identification of individuals at risk for IDDM. Many questions remain to be answered. In our paper emphasis is placed on epidemiological research. In Allegheny County, Pennsylvania, we have found an incidence of 1.73 cases/1000 (incidence rate of 15/100,000/year). There were marked geographical variations (incidence rate of 1/100,000/year in Asian countries, of 40/100,000/year in Finland). This suggests that there are major environmental determinants leading to expression of disease in genetically susceptible individuals. There are no geographical differences in the main age of onset, the sex ratio and the clinical patterns in the initial course of newly detected IDDM. In all parts of the world islet cell antibodies are positive in 60-80% of newly diagnosed IDDM. Migration of children from their native homeland with a low incidence rate to a country with high incidence rate was accompanied by an increase of incidence. The following potential environmental factors have been considered: viral infections, environmental toxins, nutrients, and stress. In our view IDDM occurs in genetically susceptible individuals.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)