‘Shocking’ leap in children with Type 2 diabetes
New analysis of data from GP surgeries reveals 7,000 sufferers of Type 2 strain of disease among youngsters
The number of young people suffering from Type 2 diabetes is nearly 10 times higher than previously thought, new analysis reveals. Campaigners expressed shock last night as it emerged the true tally of those with the lifethreatening disease is approaching 7,000.
THE number of young people suffering from Type 2 diabetes is nearly 10 times higher than previously thought, new analysis reveals.
Campaigners expressed shock last night as it emerged the true tally of those with the life-threatening disease is approaching 7,000.
Earlier this year, statistics from the Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health sparked concern when they indicated there were 715 people under the age of 25 in England and Wales living with the illness. Traditionally the lifestyle-related condition was only seen among older adults, often those overweight or obese.
However, a new analysis by the charity Diabetes UK for the first time took into account data from GP surgeries, showing the true number receiving treatment to be far higher.
It was only in 2000 that the first recorded diagnosis of a child with Type 2 diabetes took place. The condition is much more aggressive in children and young people than in adults, with a higher overall risk of complications that tend to appear much earlier.
Diabetes UK warned that thousands more children and young people could be diagnosed with the condition over the coming years, as the latest figures on childhood obesity show that more than a third of children in England will be overweight or obese by the time they leave primary school.
It has called for better specialist support for youngsters with the condition to help manage their illness and reduce the risk of serious complications.
Meanwhile, it backed proposals for a ban on junk food television advertising aimed at children before 9pm, and to restrict supermarket price promotions for unhealthy foods.
Bridget Turner, director of policy and campaigns at Diabetes UK, said: “Type 2 diabetes can be devastating for children and young people.
“To help shape a future where fewer children develop the condition, we need continued commitment across society to create an environment that reduces obesity.
“We need to encourage healthy living by providing clear and easy-to-understand nutritional information.
“At the same time, we must look after those who already have the condition so they can avoid serious complications such as amputations, sight loss, stroke and kidney failure.
“Children and young people with Type 2 diabetes should have access to expert treatment by healthcare professionals trained to manage and research the condition and the challenges it presents.”
Prof Russell Viner, president of the Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health, added: “For many children, the development of Type 2 diabetes can be prevented with lifestyle changes, but this isn’t easy – they need support.”