RESUMO
An exploration has been made of the likely developments in the number of patients, the number and severity of the complications, the quality of life and the demands likely to be made on the health systems as a results of diabetes mellitus up to the year 2005. The survey has covered both the insulin-dependent form of diabletes mellitus and the non-insulin-dependent form
The report starts with a description of the present situation and recent developments. A survey of experts' ideas about the future precedes a description of various kinds of future scenarios. The report concludes by identifying a number of areas for special policy attention
Not least because of the aging of the population diabetes mellitus is a growing problem. Key issues therefore include the needs for more facilities for the prevention of the disease itself and the complications to which it gives rise. The report is therefore of relevance and interest to all groups involved in the care od diabetic patients
