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What Are The Facts About Type 2 Diabetes In Children?

Traditionally, Type 2 Diabetes has been an adult condition – only recently has there been more instances of children developing Type 2 Diabetes. Let's take a look at some of the recent information about it.

What Is Type 2 Diabetes, Anyhow?

Type 2 diabetes is a condition in which the body has become insulin resistant. In children, this abnormality is that there is inappropriate insulin usage, which leads later in life to a failure of the insulin-production altogether.

When Does It Tend To Manifest Itself?

Type 2 diabetes tends to be identified during puberty. This is thought to be due to the fluctuations in hormone levels during this time. The hormone level changes can cause insulin resistance and less insulin action. Mid-puberty is the prime time to have type 2 diabetes, though children as young as four years old have been identified with it.

Another common factor for type 2 diabetes in children is obesity. Obese children tend to product too much insulin. Also, too much fatty tissue – adipose cells – takes the body toward insulin resistance. In terms of the prevention of type 2 diabetes, watching the body fat can go a long way.

How Do They Screen For Type 2 Diabetes In Children?

If a child has risk factors for developing type 2 diabetes, doctors can screen them for it. Basically, if the child is older than ten years and starting puberty, and whose BMI is greater than 85% for their age and sex, or whose weight is greater than 120% of idea for their height, they are at great chance of being screened.

Additionally, if there are also at least two other conditions, they will be screened. The other conditions are: family history of type 2 diabetes in first or second degree relative, ethnic background of Pacific Islander, American Indian, Asian, and African-American, signs of insulin resistance, or presence of conditions that tend to be with insulin resistance, like polycystic ovary syndrome or high blood pressure. Children that are identified for screening should have a “fasting blood sugar” test done and be checked every two years.

For Type 2 Diabetes In Children, What's Next?

Because children with this disease is so new, there is not a lot known about how to treat type 2 diabetes in children. Experts agree that the treatments should probably be similar to how adults deal with diabetes. Studies show that controlling Type 2 Diabetes can be difficult over time, as the disease is progressive and control of blood sugar tends to diminish. Despite this, children and the adults who care for them need to be educated in how to manage their disease – including oral medications and/or insulin use. They should learn about meal planning, exercise, and stress management. The American Diabetes Association is a good place to go for more information about type 2 diabetes in children.