June 25, 1999
People sometimes joke about today's kids —dining on fast food and demonstrating the habits of a "couch potato." But health professionals have noted a trend that is quickly eliminating the humorous aspect of these lifestyle habits. Diagnosis of type 2 diabetes in children (also known as "adult-onset" diabetes) under the age of 18 has increased tenfold in the past 10 years.
Until recently, type 2 diabetes was mainly diagnosed in people over the age of 40. The increase in children under 18 developing this condition will result in health problems in the future if these patients are not properly managed.
The consequences of developing type 2 diabetes earlier in life are numerous. When adults develop the disease in their 40s, 50s or 60s, there is a shorter period of time in which the condition can do damage. Type 2 diabetes is a disease which, when left untreated, can threaten blood pressure, heart function, vision and circulation. Thus, children who develop the disease and do not properly manage the condition face a much graver threat.
What's contributing to this trend? Professionals point to an epidemic of obesity in children, fueled by poor nutrition and a lack of exercise. In addition, a family history of type 2 diabetes is also a contributing factor. Children who represent minority populations (African Americans, Native Americans, Hispanics) are also at a greater risk of developing the disease. Treatment options for children with type 2 diabetes are similar to management in adults. Type 2 diabetes can sometimes be controlled with diet and exercise. When diet and exercise do not have the desired effect, oral medication can be added to the management program.
In recognition of this trend and in an effort to establish a standard treatment protocol, a study is currently underway to examine the benefits of prescribing the same treatment option to children that is used by a large number of adults with type 2 diabetes. Parents can find out how to enroll their children in this study by calling the toll-free number 1-888-99-STUDY.
Parents can help reduce their child's risk of type 2 diabetes by taking simple life-style steps. These include:
Proper nutrition. Parents should provide children with sensible portions of low-fat foods and significant amounts of fresh fruits and vegetables. Parents should also reduce the number of fast-food meals, which typically are extremely high in fat content and low in farm-fresh ingredients.
Increase exercise. Parents should help their kids to get off the couch and open the screen door. Kids should be encouraged to discover the joys of biking, walking, dancing, and swimming, among other exercise options.
Be a positive role model. Parents who are lifestyle role models also help to successfully motivate their children. "Like father, like son" is an old adage based on the legitimate observation that children do follow in the footsteps of their parents.
If despite the above tactics, type 2 diabetes develops, medical treatment is a must.
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