Background: by using data from Juiz de Fora's Family Health Program survey, we aimed to assess the epidemiological profile of Diabetes Mellitus (DM) in an urban area in Juiz de Fora, MG, Brazil. Methodology: The source of information was a questionnaire, prepared according to the Primary Health Care Advancement Management Program, for the 12,695 homes visited. 180 students were selected from health courses to make the interviews, after having undergone a methodological training. Data obtained were organized using the software EPI-INFO 6.03 (WHO). Data bank analysis for the population between 30 and 69 years of age has led to the extensive study of DM prevalence and its association with other diseases. Results: Prevalence of self-reported DM was 4.2% (n=861) in general population, reaching 11.6%(n=297) of those between 60 and 69 years old and only 0,9% (n=76) among those between 30 and 39 years old. Irregular or no treatment was reported by 147 diabetics (17.1%). Among men, age did not interfere with compliance; for women there was a correlation between age and adherence to treatment. Other health disturbances were significantly associated with DM: cardiopathy (r=4.8), hypertension (r=4.7), blindness (r=3.1) and walking disabilities (r=3.9). Conclusions: Self-reported DM prevalence was similar to other national surveys. The high prevalence of non-adherence to treatment was significantly associated with low income and younger age in female gender. There was an important association of DM with other health problems, such as cardiopathy, hypertension, blindness and walking disabilities.
Self-reported diabetes mellitus; Epidemiology; Diabetes mellitus; Chronic diseases
