[Procedures for the early recognition of diabetics in Basle 1972. Contributions to the early diagnosis of diabetes mellitus by means of blood sugar analysis with special reference to the practical procedures under Swiss conditions].

In Basle in 1972 a diabetes survey was performed in subjects with increased risk of diabetes mellitus (overweight, age above 50, relatives of diabetics). For screening, the blood sugar was determined one hour after ingestion of 50 g of glucose. 404 males and 768 females (known diabetics excluded) were examined. One third of males and one quarter of females had a blood sugar value above 150 mg%. Blood sugar values of more than 200 mg% were found in 9% of the male and 7% of the female participants. A positive correlation existed between age and blood sugar values in males and females. Body weight and blood sugar value correlated only in females. However, in male subjects with pronounced obesity (Broca index greater than 1.23) there was a significantly higher incidence of blood sugar screening value above 150 mg% than in the rest of the males. It would appear that even slight overweight enhances glucose intolerance in females, whereas in males only marked overweight favours the manifestation of glucose intolerance. The cost of the detection of a new case of diabetes mellitus (blood sugar greater than 200 mg%) amounted to Sfr. 70.-. The Basle diabetes survey provides a model for successful conduct of a preventive program through cooperation of private organizations such as the local Medical Association and the local Diabetes Association.