November is Diabetes Awareness Month, a critical time to focus on the increasing prevalence of pediatric diabetes. For parents, especially those with a family history of diabetes, understanding the risks, early signs, and proactive measures can make a significant difference in their child’s long-term health.
Understanding Pediatric Diabetes
Diabetes is a chronic condition affecting how the body processes blood sugar (glucose). In children, it typically manifests as Type 1 diabetes (an autoimmune condition where the body attacks insulin-producing cells) or Type 2 diabetes (often linked to lifestyle and genetics).
– Type 1 Diabetes: Usually diagnosed in children and adolescents, this form of diabetes accounts for about 5-10% of all diabetes cases in the U.S.
– Type 2 Diabetes: Historically seen in adults, Type 2 diabetes is now increasingly common in children due to rising rates of obesity and sedentary lifestyles.
Statistics and Family History Impact
If diabetes runs in your family, your child has a higher risk of developing it. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC):
– Type 1 diabetes risk increases if a parent or sibling has the condition.
– Children with one parent with Type 2 diabetes have about a 40% chance of developing it, rising to 70% if both parents are affected.
When Are Children Screened for Diabetes?
Regular pediatric checkups include an assessment of diabetes risk. Screening typically begins if:
– The child is overweight or obese.
– There’s a family history of Type 2 diabetes.
– The child shows symptoms of diabetes, such as excessive thirst, frequent urination, or unexplained weight loss.
Blood glucose or A1C tests can confirm the diagnosis. The American Diabetes Association recommends screening starting at age 10 or earlier if risk factors are present.
What to Expect After a Diagnosis
A diabetes diagnosis can be overwhelming, but advances in care allow children to lead full, active lives.
1. Care Team: You’ll work with pediatricians, endocrinologists, dietitians, and diabetes educators.
2. Treatment: Type 1 diabetes management includes insulin therapy, blood sugar monitoring, and carbohydrate counting. Type 2 diabetes may involve lifestyle changes, medication, and monitoring.
3. Education: Parents and children learn to manage diabetes through nutrition planning, recognizing symptoms of low or high blood sugar, and using devices like insulin pumps or continuous glucose monitors (CGMs).
Tips for New Parents to Reduce Diabetes Risk
While some risk factors, such as genetics, are beyond your control, these proactive steps can reduce the likelihood of your child developing diabetes:
1. Encourage Healthy Eating: Introduce a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins early. Limit processed foods and sugary drinks.
2. Promote Physical Activity: Children need at least 60 minutes of physical activity daily. Encourage active play and minimize screen time.
3. Monitor Weight: Maintain a healthy weight through portion control and regular physical activity.
4. Breastfeeding Benefits: Studies show that breastfeeding for at least six months can reduce the risk of developing Type 2 diabetes later in life.
5. Annual Wellness Checks: Routine pediatric visits help identify risk factors and address concerns early.
Supporting Families with Diabetes
Managing diabetes is a family effort. If your child is diagnosed, support them emotionally and physically. Emphasize the importance of routine and staying informed about their condition. Remember, at Sandy Springs Pediatric, our pediatricians are here to guide you every step of the way.