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Diabetes in Children

According to the American Medical Association (ADA), "Guide to Living with Diabetes," more children are developing the disease today than they were just a few decades ago. Type II diabetes, formerly found mainly in adults, is striking children at an increasing rate. Parents can help prevent the disease or control its effects through diet and lifestyle changes.

  1. Types

    • There are two forms of diabetes: Type I and Type II. Historically, Type I diabetes, closely associated with the autoimmune system, predominately struck youngsters before the age of 18 and resulted in a complete shutdown of their body's ability to produce insulin. Type II diabetes sufferers still produce insulin but their bodies no longer regulate blood sugar efficiently. The diagnosis of Type II diabetes is increasing in children, due to childhood obesity and an unhealthy lifestyle.

    Symptoms

    • The onset of Type I diabetes in children is quick and severe. The child may lose weight dramatically within a couple of weeks; he may become very weak, experience vision loss and unusual thirst and hunger. He may suffer diabetic shock if not treated promptly. Alternately, Type II diabetes may develop over a period of months or years as high glucose levels in the child's bloodstream quietly damage his internal organs. The longer Type II diabetes goes unnoticed, the greater the risk of severe organ damage. As Type II diabetes progresses, the child may begin to experience the same symptoms of Type I diabetes but on a lessened scale.

    Risk

    • Obesity and a sedentary lifestyle are the culprits behind the alarming increase in children diagnosed with Type II diabetes, according to the ADA. Between 1980 and 2000, diagnosis of Type II diabetes in children has tripled as childhood obesity has risen. With the popularity of starchy fast foods, highly processed convenience foods and a surge in television watching, children are getting less exercise and eating more more. Unfortunately, schools have reduced physical education requirements at the same time.

    Prevention/Solution

    • The greatest risk factor in the development of Type II diabetes in childhood is obesity. Since the early stages of this disease often go unnoticed, parents can reduce their child's risk by serving healthy meals and offering nutritious snack choices, as well as eliminating sugary sodas and junk food. In addition, developing a healthy exercise routine for your child will help him maintain a healthy weight for life.

    Ethnic Considerations

    • All ethnic groups are subject to increased rates of Type II diabetes, but some experience a greater risk. Children of Native American descent are the most likely to develop the disease and African American children as well as children of Asian heritage are slightly more likely to develop the condition, although all children are at risk if they are overweight.

    Genetic

    • Children who have parents or siblings with Type II diabetes are more likely to contract the disease. However, adherence to a healthy diet and maintaining a low body weight greatly reduce the child's risk of developing the condition.

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