Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) in Adolescents

T2DM usually affects adults, but it can also occur in overweight or obese adolescents. In this case, the adolescent is able to produce insulin, but obesity causes the body’s cells to become resistant to insulin. That is, insulin becomes ineffective at transporting glucose into the cells, and glucose accumulates in the blood, leading to hyperglycemia.

The symptoms of T2DM may be less noticeable, but they also include thirst, frequent urination in large amounts, and lack of energy.

How to Assess if a Child Has Diabetes

When symptoms suggest diabetes, a doctor or healthcare service should be consulted to perform the appropriate diagnostic tests. Measuring blood sugar levels (blood glucose) and detecting sugar and/or ketones in the urine are essential tests for diagnosis.

Diabetes Treatment

Type 1 diabetes can be effectively managed with insulin injections, a balanced diet including carbohydrates, proteins, and fats, and regular physical activity. Blood sugar levels should be monitored several times a day using fingerstick glucose testing.

Occasionally, in situations where the menu is not ideal for a child with diabetes (such as birthday parties), the family and child should learn to make the best choices, with the help of extra insulin doses when needed.

The nutrition and nursing staff at the child’s school should understand the importance of properly supporting a student with diabetes.

Before or after physical activity, it is advisable for a child who takes insulin to have their blood sugar monitored to avoid hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) after exercise.

Type 2 diabetes can be treated with a balanced diet, weight loss, regular physical activity, and sometimes oral medications that help the pancreas produce more insulin or improve insulin action.

The balanced diet for a child with either type 1 or type 2 diabetes should be adopted by the entire family.

A Child with Diabetes Needs Care, but Is Not Different from Other Children

A child with diabetes can live a life similar to that of children without diabetes. As adults, they can lead normal and productive lives, as demonstrated by famous athletes, artists, and musicians who have diabetes.

However, if blood sugar levels are not kept close to normal over the years, the child with diabetes will be at greater risk of developing long-term complications that can affect the eyes, kidneys, heart, and nervous system. Their growth during puberty may also be affected. Therefore, diabetes requires a life of discipline, constant monitoring, and treatment, but it does not prevent a child from being happy.

By the Einstein Editorial Board