Type 2 Diabetes Now Striking Children As Young As 14 - Specialist

KUALA LUMPUR, Nov 5 (Bernama) -- Type 2 diabetes, previously often associated with adults, is now being detected among children as young as 14, raising concerns over the risk of long-term health complications.

Consultant Paediatrician and Paediatric Endocrinologist at Sunway Medical Centre, Bandar Sunway, Dr Ch'ng Tong Wooi said type 2 diabetes in adolescence is typically more aggressive than in adults.

"This is concerning because children with the disease may have to live with diabetes for decades, thereby increasing their risk of kidney disease, heart disease, nerve damage and vision loss.

"Obesity remains among the main risk factors for type 2 diabetes among children, alongside unhealthy eating habits, lack of physical activity, excessive screen time and family history," he said in a statement.

According to data from the National Health and Morbidity Survey (NHMS) 2024, two out of three adolescents consume more than 7.5 teaspoons of free sugar daily, exceeding the recommended maximum of six teaspoons.

Family history also plays a significant role, with one study finding that nearly 59.6 per cent of adolescents with type 2 diabetes had a parent or sibling with the same disease, while nearly 89 per cent had a grandparent who also had diabetes.

"Some children who appear healthy may be at risk if they have a family history or other metabolic risk factors. It is therefore important to see a doctor promptly," he said.

Parents should also be alert to early signs of diabetes, including frequent thirst and urination, constant hunger, unexplained fatigue, blurred vision and recurrent skin infections.

He said another sign that is often overlooked is acanthosis nigricans, a condition characterised by dark, velvety patches of skin on the neck, armpits or groin that are often mistaken for dirt, when it may in fact be an indicator of insulin resistance.

He added that children who are overweight or obese, or who have related risk factors, should undergo diabetes screening as early as age 10 or after reaching puberty, with regular check-ups if the risk persists.

"Oral medication such as metformin is the first-line treatment, alongside newer options such as GLP-1 receptor agonist drugs that are now also approved for young patients.

“But these must be combined with healthy eating, regular exercise and lifestyle support to control sugar levels and prevent long-term complications," he said.

He advised parents to provide more fruits, vegetables, whole grains and legumes in their children's daily diet and to reduce sugar and processed food intake.

Additionally, children should be encouraged to get at least an hour of physical activity a day, limit screen time and ensure adequate sleep.

-- BERNAMA