Are diabetic men and women treated equally? A population-based study

To obtain information on gender differences or gender discrimination in the care of diabetic patients, a comprehensive cross-sectional study was performed in the greater Stockholm area, selected in the program of implementing the St Vincent Declaration in Sweden. A representative sample of 649 diabetic patients with Type I diabetes (n = 186) and Type II diabetes (n = 463) were studied via patient questionnaire and a modified version of the DIABCARE Basic Information Sheet, There was a slight male over-representation of 53-54% in both groups, There were no gender differences as to age, duration of diabetes, treatment, body mass and HbA(1c). The prevalence of HbA(1c) levels >7% was about 59% in Type I patients and about 52% in Type II. Diastolic hypertension, i.e. blood pressure >90 mmHg, was more prevalent among men in both groups. Elevated levels of triglycerides were more frequent in men with Type I diabetes while females with Type II diabetes revealed a higher prevalence of hypercholesterolaemia. Retinopathy was more common in females with Type I diabetes. Women were also more frequently seen by their physician and more regularly practised home blood glucose monitoring. Men with Type II diabetes put more priority on staff competence in the care given, while women appreciated more a friendly and positive atmosphere at the clinic. However, continuity of contact with health professionals was the top priority among the whole sample. Thus, although certain differences in diabetic complications and in the patterns of medical care were observed, there were no signs of discrimination as to gender in these groups of persons with diabetes, (C) 1998, Editrice Kurtis.