Global burden of type 1 diabetes in adults aged 65 years and older, 1990-2019: population based study

OBJECTIVES: To estimate the burden, trends, and inequalities of type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) among older adults at global, regional, and national level from 1990 to 2019. DESIGN: Population based study. POPULATION: Adults aged ≥65 years from 21 regions and 204 countries and territories (Global Burden of Disease and Risk Factors Study 2019)from 1990 to 2019. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Primary outcomes were T1DM related age standardised prevalence, mortality, disability adjusted life years (DALYs), and average annual percentage change. RESULTS: -0.16% per year (-0.45% to 0.12%)). While the highest prevalence remained in high income North America, Australasia, and western Europe, the highest DALY rates were found in southern sub-Saharan Africa, Oceania, and the Caribbean. A high fasting plasma glucose level remained the highest risk factor for DALYs among older adults during 1990-2019. CONCLUSIONS: The life expectancy of older people with T1DM has increased since the 1990s along with a considerable decrease in associated mortality and DALYs. T1DM related mortality and DALYs were lower in women aged ≥65 years, those living in regions with a high sociodemographic index, and those aged <79 years. Management of high fasting plasma glucose remains a major challenge for older people with T1DM, and targeted clinical guidelines are needed.