With a sharp increase in cases of diabetes in children, it’s important to understand your child’s risk factors, recognize the symptoms, and stay on top of your child’s health and wellness.
Diabetes is one of the most common chronic health conditions in children and teens, and its rates are rising in the United States. Approximately 352,000 people under age 20 have diabetes, with both Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes becoming more common. While Type 1 diabetes has traditionally been more frequent in youth, Type 2 diabetes—once considered an adult disease—is now increasing, especially among children who are overweight or have obesity. An estimated one-third of American youth are considered at risk because of being overweight and obese.
What is Diabetes?
Diabetes is a condition where the
body cannot properly use or make insulin, a hormone that helps turn blood sugar into energy. Without enough insulin, blood sugar levels become too high, which can harm the body over time.
Type 1 diabetes: Type 1 diabetes happens when the immune system attacks the pancreas, stopping insulin production. It usually appears rapidly and requires lifelong insulin therapy. The exact cause is unknown, but family history and genetics play a role. There is no known way to prevent Type 1 diabetes.
Type 2 diabetes: Type 2 diabetes occurs when the body doesn’t respond well to insulin. It is more common in older children, especially those with obesity, a family history of diabetes, or certain racial/ethnic backgrounds (including Black, Hispanic/Latino, American Indian/Alaska Native, Asian American, and Pacific Islander youth). Type 2 diabetes can often be managed or prevented with healthy eating, regular physical activity, and weight management.
What Are the Signs of Diabetes in Children?
Common signs of diabetes can include:
- Increased thirst and urination
- Unexplained weight loss (Type 1) or weight gain (Type 2)
- Fatigue
- Changes in mood or behavior
- Stomach pain, nausea, or vomiting (more common in Type 1)
- Blurry vision (high blood sugar can lead to blurred vision)
- Slow healing (can be a sign of Type 2)
What Steps Should I Take to Help Manage My Child’s Health?
- Make an appointment with your health care provider. If your child shows symptoms or if you are concerned about their risk, be sure to take them in for health checkups.
- Make healthy lifestyle changes.
Eating a healthy diet, participating in regular physical activity, and maintaining a healthy weight are important goals for all children, but they can also help prevent or manage Type 2 diabetes. Work with your child’s health care provider to create a plan that incorporates healthy habits. Healthy Homefront has articles on childhood nutrition, as well as physical activity for the whole family. Check out the resources below for additional support. - Learn about diabetes. Understanding the condition helps families recognize symptoms early and support their child’s health.
- Follow your provider’s advice: If your child has diabetes, they may need medications like insulin or metformin, along with lifestyle changes, to control blood sugar.
Resources
- TRICARE offers several resources designed to support you and your family’s health and wellness goals, including parenting resources starting from pregnancy, as well as other health and wellness services.
- You can schedule a free health and wellness coaching consultation to learn more about nutrition and your family’s health. Military OneSource’s Nutrition & Fitness MilLife Guide has suggestions for good nutrition, activity, and more for the whole family.
- The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) offers resources geared toward nutrition, including healthy recipes, cooking videos, and more. In addition, VA has a Diabetes Self-Management Education and Support program, with specific modules on healthy eating and physical activity.
- The American Diabetes Association has a wealth of resources related to diabetes, including nutrition tips, cooking classes, and more.
With a sharp increase in cases of diabetes in children, it’s important to understand your child’s risk factors, recognize the symptoms, and stay on top of your child’s health and wellness.