Non-insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus in Mexico.

Previous experience throughout the world has suggested that certain populations have a genetic predisposition to the development of non-insulin dependent diabetes mellitus (NIDDM) in response to a changing environment. In particular, Native American admixture presents a genetic risk for NIDDM and modernization represents an environmental change which amplifies the risk. This review discusses these factors with respect to the situation in Mexico, where a significant portion of the population is Native American and industrialization is producing rapid environmental changes. Perhaps, with foresight, the epidemic of NIDDM which has struck Native Americans in the United States and indigenous groups in the South Pacific may be averted in Mexico. Specific aspects of the traditional Mexican lifestyle which could be retained to protect against NIDDM are presented.