Fast Facts: Kids and Type 2 Diabetes
- Type 2 diabetes, which develops in part due to lifestyle habits, is increasing in kids.
- Risk factors include being overweight, family history, preterm birth, maternal gestational diabetes and some preexisting conditions.
- Warning signs include dark skin patches, increased hunger and thirst, frequent peeing, fatigue and blurred vision.
- Prevent Type 2 diabetes by encouraging physical activity and a healthy diet.
You want the happiest, healthiest life for your child, so it makes sense if you’re concerned about the rise in cases of kids with high blood sugar and Type 2 diabetes.
“Diabetes is increasing at staggering rates because of the diet and lack of exercise in our communities, which was worse during the pandemic,” says Dr. Manisha Panchal, a pediatrician at Palo Alto Medical Foundation.
Type 2 diabetes is a chronic disease that develops over time and interferes with how the body processes sugar. Without treatment, it increases blood sugar and can cause serious long-term health problems. While it used to be rare for children to develop Type 2 diabetes, recent studies show that more kids are being diagnosed with prediabetes and Type 2 diabetes.
The good news? Type 2 diabetes is preventable. Keep your child well by learning early warning signs and helping them practice healthy lifestyle habits.