Diabetes Rates in Children

In the United States, 176,500 people under the age of 20 have diabetes. Although the exact cause of diabetes is unknown, genetic and environmental factors such as obesity and lack of physical activity play a role.

Types

• The two most prevalent types of diabetes are type 1 and type 2. Type 1 diabetes develops when the body's immune system destroy insulin producing cells. Type 2 diabetes develops when the cells do not use insulin properly.

Significance

• Although type 1 diabetes is the predominate form of the disease found in youth, a study published by the Journal of Pediatrics reported that type 2 diabetes accounts for up to 45 percent of new diabetes cases among adolescents worldwide.

Identification

• Symptoms of diabetes in children include blurred vision, frequent urination, excessive hunger or thirst, stomach aches, yeast infections in girls, unusual weight loss, bed wetting, irritability and behavior problems. With type 2 diabetes, risk factors include being overweight, having a family history of diabetes, and belonging to certain ethnic groups which are more prone to diabetes.

Effects

• Diabetes can lead to problems such as high blood pressure, heart disease, kidney disease, nerve damage and vision problems. Early detection and proper treatment can reduce the risk of further complications from the disease.

Prevention/Solution

• Although there is no cure, children with diabetes can learn to live a healthy lifestyle. Treatment includes medication and changes in diet and physical activity. It is important that any symptoms not be ignored, as diabetes can occur in children of any age.