Objective - To estimate the 2006 incidence of diabetes-related end-stage renal disease (ESRD) in France and to describe the characteristics of patients at the start of renal replacement therapy. Methods - The 2006 incidence of diabetes-related ESRD was estimated in 16 regions using data from the Rein registry. The incidence of ESRD among people with diabetes was estimated by comparing the expected number of diabetes-related ESRD cases with the prevalence of pharmacologically treated diabetes. Results - Among the 6,438 new patients on renal replacement therapy in 2006 across 16 regions, 2,262 (35%) had diabetes: 261 with type 1 (12%) and 1,897 (84%) with type 2. The incidence of diabetes-related IRCT was estimated at 48 per million inhabitants and 126 per 100,000 people with diabetes. Compared to people on IRCT without diabetes, those with diabetes had more cardiovascular comorbidities. They had started replacement therapy earlier and, for those with type 2 diabetes, more often in an emergency setting. Conclusion - Each year, approximately 3,000 people with diabetes begin dialysis, and this number is expected to continue to rise in the coming years. This study highlights the importance of organizing early and appropriate nephrological care. (R.A.)