Type 2 diabetes in children: a growing epidemic

Although a person’s risk for diabetes increases after the age of 45, it’s not un­common for children to develop the disease. In fact, according to the American Diabetes Association (ADA), the number of teens diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes has significantly increased in recent years.

This November, as part of American Diabetes Month, join the ADA in spreading word about this growing epidemic affecting America’s youth, and help improve the lives of all people touched by this devastating disease.

Risk factors
While family history does increase a person’s risk of developing later in life, experts agree the main culprit for Type 2 diabetes in youth is body weight. Children who are overweight normally have higher blood sugar levels (a primary risk factor for Type 2 diabetes).

Prevention
With the right guidance and support, children and teens can prevent diabetes or delay its onset for many years. All it takes are some simple lifestyle changes. Is your child at risk? Consider these helpful tips:

• Pack water instead of sugar-sweetened drinks (sodas, juices, etc.) in your kids’ lunchboxes.
• Make healthy snack foods available at home. Stock up on fresh fruits and veggies.
• Limit screen time (TV, computer, video games, etc.) to no more than two hours a day.
• Make physical activity a family initiative. Go for walks after dinner or longer bike rides over the weekend.
• Switch to low-fat dairy products, such as one percent or skim milk.

Twenty years ago, cases of Type 2 diabetes in children were almost unheard of. Today, they’re increasingly common. This November, help raise awareness of diabetes risk factors and encourage people to make healthy lifestyle changes. Visit www.diabetes.org for more preventative solutions.

Did you know? Skipping breakfast increases kids’ risk of developing Type 2 diabetes. Research shows that children who neglect to eat breakfast typically have higher blood sugar levels.