Age‐dependent prevalence of type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular risk profiles and use of diabetes drugs in Germany using health claims data

Aims This study evaluates type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) prevalence in Germany, focusing on patients at risk for, or with already established, cardiovascular disease (CVD), as well as their antidiabetic and cardiovascular treatments. Materials and Methods Using anonymized claims data from the WIG2 database, we calculated 2018 T2DM prevalence, extrapolating rates to the German statutory health insurance population. In the study period, 3 376 228 patients were eligible in the database. Forming antidiabetic medication groups, we evaluated treatment regimens of patients at risk for, or with already established CVD, based on the REWIND study criteria. We also evaluated their CVD medication prescriptions. Results Statutory health insurance extrapolated T2DM prevalence was estimated at 11.9%, with higher prevalence rates in older patients. When only patients with prescriptions of antidiabetic drugs were included, prevalence was 7.6%. At least 94% of patients with T2DM medication had at least one risk factor (without considering age) according to REWIND criteria, while 67%‐80% had at least two risk factors depending on treatment received. Patients taking insulin combined with oral therapy comprised the largest proportion of patients with at least two REWIND risk factors. Approximately 85% of all patients with T2DM in the population were treated with antihypertensive medication. Conclusions T2DM is widespread and affects older patients particularly. Most patients with T2DM had at least one CV risk factor, and about half already had established CVD. Early prevention of CVD, which disproportionately affects patients with T2DM, is necessary. Furthermore, the treatment of older patients with T2DM with insulin is still common and needs further evaluation.