Kuala Lumpur:Type 2 diabetes, once predominantly diagnosed in adults, is now increasingly being detected in children as young as 14. This trend has sparked significant health concerns due to the potential for long-term complications.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Dr. Ch'ng Tong Wooi, a Consultant Paediatrician and Paediatric Endocrinologist at Sunway Medical Centre, emphasized that type 2 diabetes in adolescents tends to be more aggressive compared to adults. This could lead to prolonged exposure to risks such as kidney disease, heart disease, nerve damage, and vision loss. Obesity, unhealthy eating habits, lack of physical activity, excessive screen time, and family history are identified as main risk factors for the condition.
Data from the National Health and Morbidity Survey (NHMS) 2024 shows that two-thirds of adolescents consume more than 7.5 teaspoons of free sugar daily, surpassing the recommended maximum of six teaspoons. Family history also significantly impacts risk, with nearly 59.6% of adolescents with type 2 diabetes having a parent or sibling with the disease, and 89% having an affected grandparent. Dr. Ch'ng advises that children, particularly those with a family history or other metabolic risk factors, should undergo regular health screenings and parents should be vigilant of early diabetes symptoms.
He further noted that acanthosis nigricans, characterized by dark, velvety skin patches, is often overlooked but can indicate insulin resistance. Weight management and early screening from age 10 or post-puberty is recommended for children who are overweight or possess related risk factors.
Treatment options include oral medication such as metformin and newer drugs like GLP-1 receptor agonists, which should be supplemented with a healthy diet, exercise, and lifestyle changes to manage sugar levels and prevent complications. Dr. Ch'ng suggests increasing fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes in children's diets while reducing sugar and processed foods. Encouraging daily physical activity, limiting screen time, and ensuring adequate sleep are also advised.
Source BERNAMA News Agency