Risk factors for diabetes mellitus by age and sex: results of the NationalPopulation Health Survey

Aims/hypothesis. We aimed to assess the risk factors for diabetes mellitus, by age and sex in Canada and to recommend prevention and control strategie s. Methods. This study was based on the Canadian 1996-1997 National Population Health Survey which comprised 69494 participants aged 12 years and over. T he prevalence of diabetes mellitus was analysed in relation to age, sex, bo dy mass index, overt weight status, energy expenditure, physical activity, smoking, drinking, income, marital status, education and rural or urban res idence. Results. The prevalence of diabetes increased with age and body mass index and increased inversely with energy expenditure in both males and females. Current and former smokers were associated with a higher prevalence of diab etes. No effect was observed in regular or former drinkers. Prevalence of d iabetes increased inversely with income, especially among women. Women who were single and 35 to 64 years old had a higher prevalence of diabetes than women of the same age who were married. The prevalence of diabetes was not found to be related to the level of education. Urban or rural residence wa s not found to have an effect on the prevalence of diabetes. Conclusion/interpretation. Women and men of all ages should avoid becoming overweight, by maintaining their body mass index below 25 kg/m(2) and 27 kg /m(2), respectively. They should maintain a moderate level of physical acti vity. Patients with diabetes should give up smoking completely. Diabetes pr evention and control strategies should be targeted for women in low income groups.