More Children Affected by Type Two Diabetes

Type 2 Diabetes is also referred to as "adult-onset" diabetes, because the condition presents itself later in life (more often in adults 50 and older). It's primarily considered a "lifestyle disease" -- and yet this form of diabetes is being diagnosed more and more often in children. Why are children affected by type two diabetes?

There are a lot of reasons why Type 2 Diabetes develops. A hereditary or genetic component is thought to be a strong part of it. However, lifestyle is also a factor: children who develop the disease tend to be overweight or obese. Carrying excess weight makes it harder for the body to respond to insulin, a condition known as insulin resistance. Eventually the body loses its ability to produce enough insulin to keep blood sugar levels normal.

These days, more children and teens are overweight due to lifestyle. Fast food is readily available and a sedentary lifestyle is all too easy with the popularity of video games, television, computers, and other non-active pursuits. Many children remain undiagnosed and show signs of diabetes without realizing they have the disease. The illness might not be discovered until the child has a blood test done for some other reason.

Distinguishing between Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes can be complex. Your child's doctor can take a family history, discuss symptoms with you, do a physical exam, and order blood glucose tests to help determine whether or not diabetes is present.

Type 2 diabetes can be treated with a proper diet, regular exercise, and sometimes medications are needed to keep blood sugar under control. A nutritious "diabetic-friendly" diet and consistent exercise routine will also provide many additional benefits to a child's overall health, including increased fitness, and better cholesterol levels and blood pressure. Monitoring of blood sugar levels should also be done regularly to ensure they remain under control. Sometimes proper diet and exercise are enough to prevent or delay a diagnose of diabetes -- and it has the added benefit of making it easier to lose weight. If a diagnosis has already been made, then encouragement and being a role model can help children to adjust to living with diabetes.

The information on this website is based on our own research and personal experience, and is not a substitute for medical advice. Questions about your health and individual situation should be directed to your doctor.

Why Are Children Affected by Type Two Diabetes?