Changes in the Prevalence of Diabetes Mellitus in Bulgaria (2006–2012)

AIM: The aim of this study was to compare two nationwide cross-sectional studies of diabetes prevalence in Bulgaria (2006 and 2012) and to assess its dynamics. MATERIAL AND METHODS: The two studies included 2396 and 2033 subjects, respectively. The International Diabetes Federation (IDF) diagnostic criteria were applied, and the data were weighed for type of settlement and age. RESULTS: Diabetes prevalence was found to be 7.9% in 2006 and 9.55% in 2012, P = 0.06, showing an increase of 20.9%. The absolute increase was 0.9% in the females and 2.3% in the males (P < 0.09). The increase was the largest in those aged 50–59: [9.4%, 2006 vs. 15.7%, 2012, P < 0.01]. Diabetes prevalence increased in the 20–60-year olds by 6.8% and decreased in the elderly by 6.1%. Obesity increased from 26.7 to 32.7%, P < 0.02. CONCLUSIONS: A significant increase in diabetes prevalence was found that necessitates healthcare measures and resources for community-based awareness and prevention programs.