Influences of The Great Hanshin-Awaji Earthquake on Glycemic Control in Diabetic Patients

Abstract We investigated influences on glycemic control in 177 diabetic patients after The Great Hanshin-Awaji Earthquake which occurred on January 17, 1995. Changes in serum HbA 1c level were studied according to the worsen rate of dietary and living conditions. A significant temporary increase in the mean value of HbA 1c level was found after the earthquake (8.34±2.07% in March, 1995 vs. 7.74±1.82% in December, 1994, P 1c level. The increased level of HbA 1c declined gradually to the pre-earthquake level in September, 1995. This study emphasizes the importance of appropriate diet for diabetic patients during a natural disaster. To fulfil it, medical staff have to educate diabetic patients of their disorders tediously in ordinary time. In addition, it seems quite useful to supply a medical information card and a small medical bag containing essential drugs to each patient.