Diabetes is one of the most common chronic diseases a child may face in the United States. Roughly one in 400 people under the age of 18 are affected, so it’s important to learn the facts that could save your child’s life.
The disease typically strikes in one of two forms. Type 1 (juvenile-onset) diabetes is a disorder related to the immune system, where the body attacks and destroys the insulin produced by the pancreas, which your body needs to convert food into energy. In type 2 diabetes (formerly adult-onset), the body is unresponsive to the insulin produced. This is the most common form of the disease, typically associated with older adults, and other factors such as obesity, inactivity, and a family history of diabetes. According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), over the last 20 years more and more children have been developing type 2 diabetes, as an increasing number of youths struggle with obesity in the U.S.
Diabetes too often goes undiagnosed because the symptoms may seem harmless. Some of these symptoms include frequent urination, excessive thirst, extreme hunger, and increased fatigue. Doctors don’t know exactly what causes type 1 diabetes, but the American Diabetes Association advises that early detection and treatment can help you reduce the chances of complications from the disease. So it’s important to talk to your child’s doctor if you notice any of these symptoms, and to be especially vigilant if you have a history of diabetes in your family.
Regular exercise can greatly reduce the chances of your child developing Type 2 diabetes, as well as eating healthy. At this time of year with young kids heading back to school, it can be difficult to manage their diets while you aren’t around. We have some tips right here at the AMW Safety Center for how you can help your child get on the right course by developing healthy eating habits, that could make a big difference for them throughout their life.
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