The impact of diabetes mellitus among the Metis of western Canada

Objectives. To examine the impact of diabetes mellitus on the lives of the Metis of western Canada, and to determine the extent of co-morbidity among Metis with diabetes. Design. The source of data was the Aboriginal Peoples Survey (APS), conducted by Statistics Canada in 1991. The survey was administered to a representative sample of Aboriginal peoples throughout Canada. Analysis was completed on self-identified Metis participants from the Canadian provinces of Manitoba, Saskatchewan and Alberta. Results. Metis participants with diabetes were more likely than those without diabetes to report their health status as poor. Significantly greater numbers of Metis with diabetes reported activity limitations at work, at home and in leisure activities, the need for assistance with activities of daily living and difficulties with ambulation than did those without diabetes. The extent of co-morbidity was also significant. Metis with diabetes were almost three times more likely to report hypertension and heart problems and twice as likely to report sight impairments than were those without diabetes. Conclusions. This research represents the first account of the effects of diabetes on the lives of the Metis. The APS data have provided a clear picture of the impairments in physical functioning experienced by the Metis with diabetes and the impact upon quality of life. In addition, the strong associations between diabetes and hypertension, heart problems and sight impairments suggest profound morbidity in this population that warrants prompt attention.