Diabetes and diabetic retinopathy in kazakhstan from 2013-2018.

Background: Trends in the prevalence, incidence and distribution of diabetes and diabetic retinopathy in Kazakhstan were analyzed using national statistical data from 2013-2018. The purpose of this work was to contribute to future policy and health program decisions on management of these conditions. Methods: Trends in the prevalence, incidence and distribution of diabetes and diabetic retinopathy in Kazakhstan were analyzed using national statistical data from 2013-2018. Results: In adults, prevalence of Type 1 diabetes increased by 54% over this period. Prevalence for Diabetes Mellitus, Type 2 increased by 32% and incidence by 34%. Rates for women were 1.5 times higher than those for men. In children, prevalence of diabetes mellitus, Type 1 increased by 93% and incidence by 43%. Prevalence of diabetic retinopathy increased by 27% between 2015 and 2018. There was higher prevalence and incidence of diabetes in urban than in rural populations. Conclusion: Areas to consider for the health system include appropriate management of Diabetes Mellitus, Type 1in children, electronic tracking of the diabetes chain following diagnosis, and support for treatment of diabetic retinopathy. This paper contributes to knowledge about the current status of diabetes and diabetic retinopathy in Kazakhstan and factors for consideration in their management. It also provides an indication of progress in the evolution of the health care system in a post-Soviet country.