Endocrine Abstracts

Background:

With respect to what has been mentioned about the progression of IGT to overt diabetes, and the lack of information in rural areas, and also some unresolved questions about the relationship between IGT and some micro and macrovascular complications, this research was accomplished in the years 2001-2002.

Material and Methods:

The first step of this study was carried out in 1977 to screen people (1988 persons) in Zanjan's rural areas with Glucose tolerance test witch showed IGT in 63 cases of them. Next in the second step after more than four years we re-called them and standard Glucose tolerance test was done with 75 gram glucose again. Their cardiovascular systems were also examined by a cardiologist . Electrocardiogram and exercise tolerance test were performed in all of them and Their eyes were examined by an ophtalmologist for any diabetic retinopathy.

Results:

The individuals consisted of 46 females and 17 males. The results of Glucose tolerance test indicated that 21.4% of them had remained IGT,26.2% had become Diabetic and 52.4% had turned out to become normal after four years of initial diagnosis of IGT. Body Mass Index in diabetic group was more than that of the other two groups (p<0.05).A significant correlation was observed between female sex and the progression of IGT to overt Diabetes mellitus. Coronary artery disease was found in 14.2% of the studied people and it's prevalence was higher in those who became diabetic after four years (20% VS 8% who remained IGT). The rate of retinopathy was not found to be higher than normal people.

Conclusion:

The incidence of overt Diabetes mellitus in patients with IGT in rural areas is as high as urban areas. There is a direct relationship between sex and obesity with this incidence. The prevalence of coronary artery disease in IGT is high , especially in those who are at risk of progressing to overt Diabetes.