Resumen

A review of diabetes care and treatment in Mexico

Una revisión de la atención y cuidado de la diabetes en México

VOLUMEN 4 - NÚMERO 1 / Enero - Marzo (Artículos de revisión / Review articles)

Víctor Pastor-Martínez, Department of Public Health, Faculty of Medicine, Universidad Nacional Autonoma de México, Mexico City, Mexico

Objective: To assess how the burden imposed by type 2 diabetes mellitus on the Mexican healthcare system is being managed in comparison with the Latin America reality. Methods: Literature search in the PubMed/Medline, SciELO and LILACS databases. Discussion: The healthcare reform experienced in Mexico, by the implementation of Seguro Popular, was pointed out as a reference for countries with all levels of resources. Although there is still room for enhancements, comparative analyses to evaluate the effects of this project have shown a significant improvement regarding healthcare access, blood glucose control, and a reduction of out-of-pocket expenses. Additional actions are also being taken as healthcare systems are being challenged to accommodate measures to guarantee the quality of life of people with diabetes. Conclusion: Awareness of diabetes and its associated complications must be raised as this might encourage the population to develop healthier lifestyle habits and improve treatment compliance. 

Palabras clave: Diabetes mellitus type 2. Latin America. Mexico. Prevention and control. Primary health care.