Objective: To describe the prevalence of diabetes and related complications in Plains Indians.
Research design and methods: The medical records of individuals with diagnosed diabetes seen in IHS facilities before 1 January 1987 were reviewed. Records were obtained from primary care clinics and hospitals accessible to the following six reservation communities in Montana and Wyoming: Blackfeet, Crow, Fort Belknap, Fort Peck, Northern Cheyenne, and Wind River. Medical records were reviewed to ascertain accuracy of diagnosis and associated complications.
Results: Age-adjusted prevalence rate of diagnosed diabetes was 119/1000 adults > or = 15 yr of age.
Conclusions: Diabetes rates in Plains Indians are higher than rates described for the general U.S. population.