Diabetes and Related Metabolic Conditions in an Aboriginal Cree Community of Quebec, Canada

OBJECTIVE: We evaluated the prevalence of type 2 diabetes, obesity and metabolic syndrome according to International Diabetes Federation criteria in the First Nations Cree community of Mistissini, Quebec. METHODS: A cross-sectional study of 172 adults was performed as part of a broader regional environmental study. RESULTS: Type 2 diabetes, hyperinsulinemia and abdominal obesity were documented in 20%, 70% and 91% of participants, respectively. The prevalence of metabolic syndrome was 54%, with the main profile including abnormal plasma glucose levels (60%) associated with high triacylglycerol (40%). Women displayed the highest prevalence of abdominal obesity (99%). In both sexes, waist circumference was clearly associated with other metabolic parameters, such as blood glucose and lipid profile (p<0.0001). However, a significant proportion of the population (13%), especially women, showed high waist circumference with no metabolic disturbances. CONCLUSION: Among the Cree population of Mistissini, the results suggest that the high prevalence of abdominal obesity occurs most frequently in women, and earlier in women than in men. Subsequent metabolic disturbances associated with metabolic syndrome develop with age, supporting the core role of abdominal obesity in the cascade of events leading to diabetes and cardiovascular disease.