There has been a rising, disturbing trend happening in the world. Conditions characterizing insulin resistance traditionally seen in older adults, are now being seen in our adolescents and young adults. Unless these life threatening health problems are reversed, this predisposes our young people to a range of medical problems that will continue throughout their lives.

We are starting to see a type 2 diabetes epidemic in children and adolescents now because the onset is gradual; the condition takes between eight to ten years to develop. It is following on the the epidemic of obesity which has spread to children in the last ten to twenty years.

There are often no early signs or, are so mild they are missed. What we need to recognize is overweight or obese children are at risk of developing type 2. Type 1 diabetes is still the dominant form of diabetes in children but researchers are indicating than in the next 10 years type 2 will take the lead.

Obese children, particularly older children, are more likely to become obese adults. And it is almost inevitable there will be an epidemic of type 2 diabetes if action is not taken now.

Children most at risk:

• are overweight or obese
• have a strong family history of diabetes
• have an ethnic background
• have signs of insulin resistance such as acanthosis nigricans (a velvety darkening of the skin usually found under the arms, between the fingers and toes, and on the back of the neck), polycystic ovarian syndrome, high blood pressure and blood fat disorders
• over ten years of age (due to hormonal changes which are associated with insulin resistance)

We can’t do anything about genetics or an ethnic background; obesity is a different issue. 85% of children diagnosed with type 2 diabetes are either overweight or obese at the time of diagnosis.

A family affair:

The treatment for diabetes in children is usually a family affair. Parents are responsible for choosing what is available to eat, when to eat, and where. The lifestyle changes are probably going to be major and the whole family is going to have to make them: it will include a healthy diet and increased physical activity. And everyone will benefit, be healthier and live longer!

The aim is to:

• normalize blood sugar levels and the HbA1c level
• reduce blood pressure and blood fats
• decrease the risk of complications associated with diabetes

Family members will also need to be educated:

• on type 2 diabetes
• learn how to give insulin (if prescribed)
• check blood sugar levels
• a health eating plan
• on different types of physical activity

This is where the help of your health care provider and diabetes care team will be invaluable.

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