Type 2 diabetes epidemic in Mexico. Burden of disease 1990-2021 analysis and implications for public policies

Background: Mexico faces a challenge due to the burden imposed by type 2 diabetes (T2D). Objective: To analyze T2D epidemiology and burden in Mexico from 1990 to 2021, at the national and state levels. Material and methods: Estimates from the Global Burden of Disease 2021 study were used to evaluate the prevalence, incidence, mortality, fatal and non-fatal burden. Metabolic, environmental and behavioral factors were considered. Comparative analyses were carried out by gender, age and state of the country. Results: The prevalence of T2D increased by 25%. The incidence increased in those younger than 45 years, with a mortality decrease being found among women. The rate of disability-adjusted life years (DALY) showed an increase in all states, from 45.2% in Nuevo Leon to 237.6% in Tabasco. In 2021, T2D caused the loss of 3.1 million DALYs, which accounted for 6.6% of total burden in Mexico, out of which 64% was due to premature deaths. Diabetic neuropathy affected 47%, and there were 270,000 cases of visual impairment; 66.3% of the burden was attributed to obesity. Conclusions: Comprehensive policies are urgently needed in order to reduce the burden of T2D in Mexico, through standardized guidelines, evidence-based strategies and technological resources that improve medical care accessibility and efficiency.