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Although 90-95% of all cases of diabetes in children are cases of
type 1 diabetes, there has been a dramatic increase in the number of
children under 16 who are being diagnosed with type 2 diabetes.
While genetics seem to be the key to this epidemic, with 45-80% of
the children diagnosed having one or more parent with diabetes, and
74-100% of them having at least one primary or secondary relative
having the condition, obesity is overwhelmingly present.
With type 1 diabetes, children are usually not obese, as a matter
of fact; most of these children have experienced a recent weight
loss. Their symptoms, increased thirst and frequent urination, are
fairly recent. Type 1 diabetes results in the total destruction of
the islet cells that produce insulin, resulting in the need for
insulin injections for the rest of their lives. This form of
diabetes does not rely heavily on genetics, only a small percentage
of these children have immediate or secondary family members with
diabetes.
Type 2 diabetes in children has been linked with puberty and its
subsequent changes in hormone levels. Combined with the genetic
factors and the epidemic of obesity in children, the incidence of
this type diabetes in children has sharply increased in recent
years. The excess weight makes the body produce too much insulin and
then when insulin is needed, the body cannot produce enough. The
excess body weight contributes, also, to insulin resistance.
The treatment plan for children with type 2 diabetes is similar
to that of adults. The importance of diet and changing the child’s
eating habits cannot be stressed enough. A dietician or nutritionist
trained in pediatric needs is a requirement. Some type of exercise
regimen should be added to the child’s daily routine and a fitness
instructor familiar with children’s issues should be consulted. Oral
medications are sometimes necessary if diet and fitness do not work.
At-risk children, those with the genetic markers and also obese
children with sedentary lifestyles, should be watched carefully and
tested regularly. Diabetes gets worse as time goes by and unless it
is treated, insulin injections may be the only treatment option
available.
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