Diabetes in young New Zealanders: results of national survey 1978-82.

Over a four-year period, 1 August 1978-31 July 1982, a national survey attempted to record all newly diagnosed cases of diabetes in persons under the age of 20 years, by seeking voluntary reporting from paediatricians and physicians. There were 282 cases reported--an annual incidence of 5.74 per 100,000. There was an excess of males in the 0-4 years and 15-17 year age groups, and the incidence among Maoris was significantly lower than among nonMaoris. Diabetes was significantly less common among mothers of diabetic children than among their fathers. The peak age at onset was 11 years for girls and 12 years for boys. A threefold geographical variation was noted, but underreporting may have contributed to this variation. Seasonal variation was apparent, but this was statistically significant in only one of the four years of the study. Symptoms were present in all but 3% of the cases, and the median duration of these symptoms was three weeks. More than half of the children who were treated with insulin were given more than one injection per day. It is suggested that better quality information could come from a compulsory national register.