CHANGES IN THE SURVIVAL RATES AND CAUSES OF DEATH IN TYPE-II DIABETIC-PATIENTS REQUIRING DIALYSIS TREATMENT DURING THE SEARS 1980 TO 1986 AND 1987 TO 1993

The survival rates, the prevalences of diabetic complications and the causes of death were compared in a retrospective study of type II diab etic patients who required dialysis treatment in the years 1980 - 1986 and 1987 - 1993. Additionally the HbA1c-, lipid- and fibrinogen level s as well as the blood pressure were evaluated in both patient groups. The 1- and 5-year survival rates increased from 55% and 17% respectiv ely in the type II diabetic patients (n = 12) who were dialyzed during the years 1980 - 1986, to 78% and 23% respectively in the patients (n = 31) starting dialysis in the years 1987 - 1993. These differences w ere statistically not significant. Both groups of patients did not dif fer with respect to their mean HbA1c-, cholesterol-, triglyzeride- and fibrinogen levels and not to their blood pressure. There were also no significant differences in the prevalence of diabetic retinopathy (83 % vs 93%), cerebrovascular disturbances (50% vs 45%), coronary heart d isease (83% vs 93%) and peripheral vascular disease (60% vs 67%) betwe en both periods of observation. Cardiovascular events; were the most f requent cause of death at both times (60% vs 67%). Thus in spite of be tter dialysis technique the survival rate of dialysis-requiring type I I diabetic patients could not significantly be improved during the las t years.