Juvenile diabetes is on the rise, and the numbers are deeply concerning. What was once considered a rare condition in children has now become a global health issue, particularly in India. The primary culprits? A combination of poor dietary habits, overconsumption of junk food, sedentary lifestyles, and the growing prevalence of childhood obesity. This surge is reshaping the healthcare landscape, calling for urgent action to address the alarming trend. Understanding the causes, consequences, and preventive measures is critical to safeguarding the health of the younger generation.
To understand how junk food can increase the risk of juvenile diabetes, OnlyMyHealth team interacted with Dr Bilal Thangal T M, Medical Lead, NURA, Kerala.
The Rising Prevalence of Juvenile Diabetes
"Diabetes in children is a serious medical condition that may lead to higher chances of premature death," says Dr Thangal. According to the International Diabetes Federation (IDF), over 1.1 million children and adolescents globally, aged 14 to 19, are living with diabetes.
Historically, type-1 diabetes dominated paediatric cases. However, with the increasing prevalence of childhood obesity, type-2 diabetes is becoming a significant concern. The emergence of this variant underscores the impact of lifestyle and dietary changes on young populations.
Obesity
Obesity is the most common risk factor for diabetes in children, leading to insulin resistance and fluctuating blood sugar levels. "Changes in dietary patterns have caused a rapid increase in obesity worldwide, making it a leading contributor to diabetes and its complications," explains Dr Thangal.
The overconsumption of processed foods, sugary drinks, and high-calorie snacks, combined with reduced physical activity, is fueling this epidemic. Studies reveal that pre-diabetes and type-2 diabetes affect 12.3% and 8.4% of Indian adolescent boys and girls, respectively.
Role of Early Diagnosis and Screening
Dr Thangal emphasises, "Early diagnosis of diabetes in children can ensure effective management and control of the disease, preventing long-term complications." Countries like Japan have implemented comprehensive AI-driven screening programs, enabling early identification of diabetes markers. These programs highlight the potential for early intervention to improve outcomes and prevent severe complications such as cardiovascular diseases and cancer.
Challenges and Opportunities
In India, where a significant portion of the population belongs to low- and middle-income families, prevention is far more cost-effective than treatment. Adopting strategies similar to Japan's periodic screenings can mitigate the growing burden of juvenile diabetes.
Dr Thangal notes, "Delay in diagnosis can have devastating effects on children’s health. Early screening and prompt medical intervention are the most effective tools to curb the spread of type-2 diabetes in children and produce better treatment outcomes."
Lifestyle Changes for Prevention
Combatting juvenile diabetes requires a multi-pronged approach. Parents and caregivers must encourage:
- Healthy Eating Habits: Prioritise fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins over processed and sugary foods.
- Regular Physical Activity: Encourage outdoor play, sports, and exercise to reduce sedentary behaviour.
- Reduced Screen Time: Limit the use of electronic gadgets to prevent prolonged inactivity.
These measures, coupled with regular health check-ups, can significantly lower the risk of diabetes in children.
Conclusion
The rise of juvenile diabetes is an urgent public health challenge that demands immediate attention. High consumption of junk food, sedentary lifestyles, and lack of early screenings are contributing to the crisis. Dr Bilal Thangal’s insights highlight the importance of early diagnosis, lifestyle changes, and targeted interventions to combat this growing epidemic.
By fostering awareness and adopting preventive measures, we can protect future generations from the devastating consequences of diabetes, ensuring healthier lives for our children.