Type 2 Diabetes in Children on the Rise

215,000 people under 20 have either Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes. Moreover, Type 2 diabetes among people under 20 is rising at an alarming rate. Being diabetic can be a tough pill to swallow, especially for children and young adults who are already facing some of the toughest years of their lives. In addition to pressure from school, friends, and parents, these young people must face the realization that they will have this disease for the rest of their lives. For most young adults and children, Type 2 is an enigma. In the past, Type 2 was strictly an adult disease; however, as the number of children overweight or obese increases so does the risk for Type 2. According to the CDC, close to 3,700 Americans under the age of 20 are diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes every year. What does having Type 2 diabetes really mean? Well, it equates to your body either being unable to use insulin or not having enough insulin to keep your blood sugar at an acceptable level. So, who’s at risk? Parents of either obese or overweight children should be concerned. Also, African Americans, Latinos/Hispanics, and Native Americans are at a greater risk than other nationalities. Family history is another element to consider when deciding whether or not to have your child screened. Between 45-80% of Type 2 diabetics have at least one parent with the same disease. If you possess at least 2 out of the 3 contributing factors then it is imperative that your kid be screened immediately. How can you spot the symptoms in your child? Frequent urination, excessive thirst, loss of weight for no reason, and dark, shiny patches on the neck or in between fingers and toes are all tell-tale signs of the disease. Sadly, if your child is diagnosed with Type 2 then it is important to show your child how to live a healthier lifestyle. For example, a continued sedentary lifestyle will not benefit your child. Limit your kid’s time in front of the television and computer. Give them more outdoor chores or sign them up for an after school sport. Going out on a brisk walk at night is a great way to spend time with your child and help them manage his/her diabetes. Planning a weekend biking trip is another fun alternative. No matter what you do make sure that your child‘s heart rate is up for at least 20 minutes a day. Cutting out fast food and sodas is another helpful way to monitor Type 2 diabetes. Healthy eating habits and exercise can combat the disease during the early stages; however, oral medication and other diabetic supplies might be necessary later on in life. Regardless, exercise and portion control can keep your kid’s blood glucose at good levels. Just because your child has not been diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes does not mean that they are not at risk. About 79 million Americans have pre-diabetes, meaning blood sugar levels are at a dangerous level. Parents and kids should regard a pre-diabetes diagnosis as an alarm bell. Fortunately, pre-diabetes does not signify an impending diabetes diagnosis if the person makes drastic changes to his/her lifestyle. Remember, Type 2 diabetes is preventable.