Is there evidence of potential overtreatment of glycaemia in elderly people with type 2 diabetes? Data from the GUIDANCE study

Abstract

Aims: We used data from the GUIDANCE Study to determine the care of people with type 2 diabetes according to age and accompanying cardiovascular diseases and to assess indicators of overtreatment of glycaemia.Methods: The GUIDANCE study was a retrospective, cross-sectional study from 2009–2010 based on the records of 7597 people in France, Belgium, Italy, the Netherlands, Sweden, UK, Ireland and Germany. We analysed the level of metabolic control achieved and blood glucose-lowering medication used in different age groups and in relation to accompanying diseases.Results: 4.459 patients (59.1%) were 65 years or older. Their HbA1c levels were similar to those with