Influence of Glycemic Control on Growth and Complications in Children with Insulin-dependent Diabetes Mellitus

A Follow-up Study of Children Enrolled in a Summer Camp for Diabetics in Kinki District

Abstract

The influence of glycemic control on growth and complications in diabetic children was studied. The subjects were 107 children with insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus, who were enrolled in a Summer Camp for Diabetic Children in Kinki District from 1972 to 1990, and who had undergone at least three measurements of HbA₁ level during the observation period. Many of the children had a high mean HbA₁ level regardless of age. Their height and weight were below the standard for age in many cases, indicating growth retardation. However, SD score for height and weight and other physical indices were not related to the mean HbA₁ level. On the other hand, the prevalence of diabetic retinopathy was related to the elevated mean HbA₁ level, whereas that of urine albumin was not. The serum cholesterol level was higher in children with a higher mean HbA₁ level, but serum triglycerides indicated no relation to glycemic control. The incidence of retinopathy during the observation period was closely related to the mean HbA₁ level, but that of urine albumin was not.