Diabetes in Children and Teens
Learn about diabetes in young people, including Type 1 diabetes, Type 2 diabetes, symptoms, treatment, and healthy habits that help children manage diabetes.
DIABETES is a long-term condition that affects how the body controls BLOOD GLUCOSE levels. Although diabetes can occur at any age, children and teenagers have unique needs because they are still growing, developing, and building lifelong health habits.
For many years, TYPE 1 DIABETES was the most common form diagnosed in children and was often called juvenile diabetes. Today, TYPE 2 DIABETES is also increasingly diagnosed in younger people.
Type 1 Diabetes in Children
TYPE 1 DIABETES is an autoimmune condition in which the body damages the insulin-producing cells of the PANCREAS.
INSULIN is a hormone that helps glucose move from the blood into cells, where it is used for energy. Without enough insulin, glucose remains in the bloodstream, causing high BLOOD GLUCOSE levels.
Children and teens with type 1 diabetes usually require lifelong insulin treatment. They also need regular glucose monitoring, balanced nutrition, and adjustments based on activity, illness, and growth.
Type 2 Diabetes in Children and Teens
TYPE 2 DIABETES occurs when the body does not use INSULIN properly or cannot make enough insulin to maintain healthy blood glucose levels.
In the past, type 2 diabetes was mostly seen in adults and was sometimes called adult-onset diabetes. However, it is now increasingly diagnosed in children and teenagers.
Factors that increase the risk of type 2 diabetes in young people include excess body weight, OBESITY, family history of diabetes, and low levels of physical activity.
Symptoms of Diabetes in Children
Symptoms may develop quickly in type 1 diabetes or more gradually in type 2 diabetes.
Common symptoms include:
- Increased thirst
- Frequent urination
- Unexplained weight changes
- Extreme hunger
- Tiredness or lack of energy
- Blurred vision
- Slow healing of cuts or infections
Some children with type 2 diabetes may have few symptoms and are diagnosed during routine testing.
Diagnosing Diabetes in Children
Healthcare providers use blood tests to diagnose and monitor diabetes.
The A1C TEST measures average blood glucose levels over approximately the previous three months and is commonly used to understand long-term diabetes control.
Other tests may include fasting glucose tests, random glucose tests, or additional testing depending on the type of diabetes suspected.
Treatment of Type 1 Diabetes
The main treatment for TYPE 1 DIABETES is INSULIN replacement because the body cannot produce enough insulin.
Insulin may be given using injections, insulin pens, or insulin pumps. Treatment plans are adjusted as children grow and their daily routines change.
Treatment of Type 2 Diabetes
Treatment for TYPE 2 DIABETES focuses on improving blood glucose control and overall health.
Management may include:
- Healthy eating habits
- Regular physical activity
- Maintaining a healthy weight
- Diabetes medicines when needed
- Sometimes insulin therapy
Preventing Type 2 Diabetes Risk
Not all cases of diabetes can be prevented, especially TYPE 1 DIABETES. However, healthy habits may reduce the risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
Helpful habits include:
- Eating balanced meals with appropriate portions
- Being physically active every day
- Reducing long periods of screen time
- Supporting healthy growth and weight
Managing Diabetes Day to Day
Children and teenagers with diabetes can live active and healthy lives with proper support.
Families, healthcare providers, and schools often work together to create a safe routine for medicines, meals, exercise, and glucose monitoring.
Young people with diabetes should also understand warning signs of HYPERGLYCEMIA and HYPOGLYCEMIA so they know when to take action.
Frequently asked questions
Type 1 diabetes has traditionally been the most common type diagnosed in children, but Type 2 diabetes is becoming more common among children and teenagers.
Children with Type 1 diabetes need insulin because their pancreas produces little or no insulin. Insulin allows glucose from the blood to enter cells for energy.
Yes. Type 2 diabetes can occur in children and teenagers, especially when risk factors such as obesity, family history, and low physical activity are present.
Healthy habits such as regular physical activity, balanced eating, maintaining a healthy weight, and reducing inactive time may lower the risk of Type 2 diabetes.
The A1C test measures average blood glucose levels over about three months and helps monitor diabetes management.