THE ASSOCIATION OF NON-INSULIN-DEPENDENT DIABETES-MELLITUS WITH PERCEIVED QUALITY-OF-LIFE IN A BIETHNIC POPULATION - THE SAN-LUIS-VALLEY-DIABETES-STUDY

Objectives. This study evaluated the association between quality of li fe and non-insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus (NlDDM) status, and whe ther this association differs between Hispanics and non-Hispanic White s. Methods. Between 1986 and 1989, cross-sectional data on perceived q uality of life (PQOL) were collected from 223 persons with NIDDM and 7 53 nondiabetic subjects. Results. After adjustment, persons with NIDDM rated their PQOL significantly lower than did control subjects. The r elationship of diabetes and PQOL did not differ by ethnicity. The numb er of complications of diabetes was not associated with lower PQOL sco res. Conclusions. Control and treatment strategies should reflect an u nderstanding of the impact that diabetes has on social functioning, le isure activities, and physical and mental health.