The use of antidiabetic medicines in Australia has increased
substantially since the early 1990s and the trend is continuing,
according to a new report released today by the Australian
Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW).
The report, Use of medicines by Australians with
diabetes, presents information on medicines used in the
control of diabetes (such as such as insulin and oral blood
glucose-lowering medicines) as well as those used for prevention or
control of common diabetes complications.
The report shows that between 1990 and 2004 there was a twofold
increase in the use of insulin and a threefold increase in the use
of oral blood glucose-lowering medicines.
Ms Kathleen O'Brien of the AIHW's Cardiovascular Disease and
Diabetes Unit said the growing use of antidiabetic medicines is
consistent with the rise in the number of Australians being
diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes.
'An estimated 75% of Australians with diabetes (Type 1 and Type
2) reported using insulin or other medicines to manage their
diabetes,' she said.
The report also found that people with diabetes reported greater
use of medicines for associated conditions such as high blood
pressure and high blood cholesterol than people without
diabetes.
Diabetes is a chronic condition that can have a major impact on
life expectancy and quality of life, especially if undetected or
poorly controlled. Common complications of diabetes can include
coronary heart disease, diabetic eye disease, kidney disease, and
circulatory problems that can lead to foot ulcers and even lower
limb amputations.
'A healthy diet and regular exercise are important in managing
blood glucose levels,' said Ms O'Brien.
Some people with Type 2 diabetes can achieve blood glucose
control through lifestyle measures alone, however many also require
antidiabetic medications. All people with Type 1 diabetes require
insulin.
'Along with avoiding smoking and maintaining good control of
blood pressure and cholesterol levels, these lifestyle approaches
also help reduce the risk of complications such as heart attack and
stroke,' she said.
9 August 2006
Further information: Ms Kathleen O'Brien, AIHW,
tel. 02 6244 1220, or 0407 915 851
For media copies of the report: Publications
Officer, AIHW, tel 61 2 6244 1032.
Availability: Check the AIHW Publications
Catalogue for availability of the Use of medicines by
Australians with diabetes report.