: ~142- aT “oss € VI. CHRONIC AND HANDICAPPING DISEASES Within the TIPIL, the most prevalent morbidity problem is diseases of the respiratory system. During fiscal year 1977, 23.5% of all inpatient discharges were due to diseases of the respiratory system. Also during FY 1977, 26,850 cases or 22.5% of all reported outpatient problems were diagnosed as respiratory diseases. During the years 1974-1976, the average number of deaths due to diseases of the respiratory system was 24.6. The mortality rate for the same three year period was 23.7 deaths per 100,000 population. This rate is high, compared to the United States rate of 11.9. However, the TTPI rate 3s comparable to the American Samoa rate of 21.4. DIABETES MELLITUS Diabetes is a disease which 1S greatly under-estimated as it is seldom a primary cause of death, but it is handicapping and reduces the work force of a community. The importance of diabetes in producing disability 1s compounded by its predisposing influence in the development of arteriosclerotic complications 9009154 PR APSSTEEPws dane CA ee