Epidemiological and clinical study of diabetes in immigrants from Bangladesh in Athens versus Greek patients.

Background/aim: Greece has experienced a large wave of immigration from Bangladesh. The purpose of this study was to determine whether Bangladeshi immigrants with diabetes have poorer preventive follow-up and diabetes self-care compared to Greek patients.

Patients And Methods: A total of 166 patients from Bangladesh and 123 patients from Greece were recruited. Interviews were conducted, a physical examination followed and blood and urine samples were collected.

Results: Patients from Bangladesh had worse glycemic control (A1C=7.74±1.6 vs. 7.55±1.7%; p=0.3), and lower high-density lipoprotein levels (33.99±9.4 vs. 44.05±10.43 mg/dl; p=0.037). They were less likely to regularly take their medication for diabetes mellitus, or to follow dietary recommendations. However, fewer of them smoked, and had a significantly lower body mass index than Greek patients.

Conclusion: Bangladeshi immigrants are less likely to engage self-care behaviors and have worse glycemic control and less access to medication, laboratory test and healthcare Units.