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Hereditary Risks of Diabetes in Children

According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), diabetes affects about 151,000 children and adolescents, making it one of the most prevalent chronic diseases for that age group. While Type 1 remains the more common form in children, the incidents of Type 2 have increased significantly. Both types have different causes, but the American Diabetes Association (ADA) states that each carries an inherited predisposition to the disease.

  1. Type 1 Diabetes

    • Type 1 (immune mediated) diabetes, formerly called "juveniles diabetes," is an autoimmune disease in which the pancreas is unable to produce insulin, a hormone necessary to convert sugar, starches and other foods into glucose, the main source of energy for the body. The ADA states that the odds for developing the disease are roughly 1 in 4 to 1 in 10 when both parents have Type 1 diabetes.

    Symptoms, Diagnosis, Treatment

    • Symptoms of Type 1 diabetes, which usually develop over the course of just a few weeks, can include increased thirst as well as urination; greatly increased appetite; weight loss; lethargy; irritability; blurred vision; yeast infections in girls; and severe diaper rash as well as dehydration in infants.

      Diabetes is diagnosed through blood tests measuring glucose levels. Once confirmed, additional blood tests checking for auto-antibodies will enable a doctor to specify if it's Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes.

      The Mayo Clinic advises that treating Type 1 diabetes requires a lifetime of blood sugar monitoring, insulin, healthy eating and regular exercise. Pediatric endocrinologists work with the child and his parents to monitor the treatments' effectiveness and make adjustments whenever necessary.

    Type 2 Diabetes

    • With Type 2 diabetes, there is a deficiency, though not a complete absence, of insulin. It is the most common form of diabetes among adults; it used to be called "adult-onset" until the recent rise in cases among children and adolescents. Type 2 diabetes carries a strong hereditary risk. According to the ADA, when both parents have Type 2 diabetes, the child has a 50 percent chance of developing the disease.

    Symptoms, Diagnosis, Treatment

    • According to KidsHealth.org, symptoms of Type 2 diabetes in children are much less obvious than those of Type 1, and can develop slowly. They can include frequent urination, excessive thirst, and feeling tired. Additionally, those with Type 2 diabetes are more likely to have hypertension (high blood pressure) as well as high cholesterol. Girls who have reached puberty may develop polycystic ovary syndrome.

      A blood glucose test is used to diagnose Type 2 diabetes. A pediatric endocrinologist will manage the treatment plan with the child and his parents. Typically, the doctor will guide the child to a healthier diet and develop an exercise program, as most children with Type 2 diabetes are overweight or obese. In addition, the child must monitor his blood sugar and, if necessary, take insulin to regulate it.

    Preventative

    • The Mayo Clinic has developed the following guidelines for parents to help prevent Type 2 diabetes in their children:

      Eat healthy foods, those low in fat and calories, with a focus on fruits, vegetables and whole grains.

      Get active. Sign your child up for a sports team or dance lessons, or look for active things to do together.

      Maintain a healthy weight. Help your child loose excess weight by changing her eating and exercise habits.

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