Projected Increase in Diabetes in Children

According to a study recently announced by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), over half a million people under age 20 could have Type 2 diabetes in 2060. This projected increase in diabetes in children is based on current rates taking into consideration population increase.

Black, Hispanic/Latino, Asian, and other minorities were shown to have a higher rate of Type 2 Diabetes. However, the projected increase in childhood obesity could be a major factor.

Obesity is a major risk factor in the development of Type 2 Diabetes. It is estimated that 14.7 million children (roughly 20%) suffer from obesity. The rate is even higher in Hispanic and Black children. If this rate continues to increase unchecked, the projected increase in diabetes in children may become reality.

So, what can you do? If your child is overweight, work with your child’s pediatrician to develop a personalized treatment plan. This plan would include diet modification as well as increased activity.

Your child’s first steps in weight control are eating healthy foods and moving more to burn more calories. Check out the blog posts we published on childhood obesity and fun exercise for more information and make an appointment with your child’s pediatrician.