Caracterização epidemiológica de pacientes diagnosticadoscom diabetes mellitus tipo II no territóriodaplanícielitorânea e cocais do estado do Piauí.

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a group of metabolic disorders characterized primarily by chronic hyperglycemia, resulting from defects in insulin secretion, insulin action, or both. It is classified mainly into Type I and Type II, with the latter accounting for approximately 90% of diagnosed cases globally, and thus representing a major public health concern. OBJECTIVE: To describe the epidemiological profile of patients diagnosed with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus who were referred to the Integrated Center for Medical Specialties (CIEM) in Parnaíba, Piauí, Brazil. METHODS: This exploratory longitudinal study analyzed descriptive epidemiological variables among users from the Planície Litorânea and Cocais regions referred to CIEM between 2023 and 2024. Data were extracted from patient records, considering sociodemographic characteristics, clinical variables, and treatment regimens. RESULTS: Most patients were female (64%), predominantly aged 41–50 years. A significant proportion self-identified as mixed-race, with low educational attainment and monthly income below the national minimum wage. Insulin use was frequent, and systemic arterial hypertension was the most prevalent comorbidity. Hypoglycemia emerged as the most common acute complication. CONCLUSION:on: The lack of electronic health records and the frequent omission of sociodemographic data limited a more comprehensive epidemiological analysis. The findings highlight the predominance of low-income, middle- aged women with limited education, underscoring the need for integrated, culturally competent primary care strategies. Efforts to improve data collection and incorporate social determinants into medical education are essential for advancing both patient care and scientific research.