Diabetes in Childen and Adolescents

Type 1 diabetes is a disease which occurs when the pancreas does not produce enough insulin, a hormone that regulates blood sugar. The disease was previously called juvenile diabetes.

Due to  deficient insulin production, children with Type1 diabetes require daily administration of insulin.
Type 1 diabetes affects children of all ages, but the poorest are hit the hardest.  Unfortunately there is no known way to prevent it.  Here are some facts:

• More than 200 children develop type 1 diabetes daily.
• 700,000 children annually under the age of 15
• 50% of children develop complications 12 years after diagnosis
• Over 50% of type 2 diabetes can be prevented
• Children die because they cannot get medication
• Children with diabetes can live full productive lives.

Due to deficient insulin production, children with Type1 diabetes require daily administration of insulin.
Warning signs:

• Urinary frequency
• Excessive thirst
• Increased hunger
• Weight loss
• Tiredness
• Lack of interest and concentration
• Blurred vision
• Vomiting
• Stomach pain

Promoting a health lifestyle will prevent them from developing type 2 diabetes. This includes:

1. Maintaining a healthy weight
2. Keeping physically active
3. Developing a healthy eating pattern
4. Avoiding exposure to second hand smoke

These children cannot afford to be overweight. They need to adopt healthy eating habits. Parents can help by setting an example and by preparing nutritious healthy meals.

Health agencies can help by supporting and funding Initiatives to reduce incidents of diabetic ketoacidosis, this will reduce the number of deaths.