Diabetes mortality during the COVID-19 pandemic in Mexico: an inequality-based approach

Purpose. The aim of this study was to estimate inequalities in mortality from diabetes mellitus according to their sociodemographic characteristics, conditions of social marginalization, and medical care. Methods. An ecological study was conducted to estimate the slope index of inequality and the index of concentration of mortality inequality based on the marginalization conditions of the habitual residence at the municipal level. This analysis considered the deaths registered during the period from 2019 to 2021 due to diabetes in Mexico. Results. Mortality from diabetes increased during the pandemic. Those with the least access to health services had 98 more deaths per 100,000 people compared to those who had the greatest access to health services (95% CI -98.39 to -47.86). There was a higher mortality in the most vulnerable groups. Conclusions. The COVID-19 pandemic primarily impacted socially vulnerable groups. Tackling the social determinants of health in disadvantaged populations will aid governments in managing health emergencies, promoting disease prevention, early detection, and timely treatment. Trial registration: not applicable