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Written By: Editorial Team | Published : November 14, 2019 10:47 AM IST
On world Diabetes Day, know the expert advice on how to manage juvenile diabetes.
As we celebrate World Diabetes Day and Children's Day today in India, the irony is too stark to ignore. Diabetes affects more than 70 million people in our country. And, it is indeed alarming that more and more children are falling victim to this disease. Known as juvenile diabetes, the condition - both Type 1 and Type 2 - affects 1 in 10 children in India. The blame can squarely fall on an unhealthy lifestyle, consumption of processed and packaged food, as well as increasing screen time. In juvenile diabetes, the pancreas does not produce enough insulin to break down sugar. This leads to the build-up of glucose in the bloodstream. Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune condition and Type 2 diabetes is the result of an infection that damages pancreatic function. The latter is an outcome of wrong eating habits that make children obese and hamper pancreatic function in them.
It is important to understand that due to rapid growth and hormonal changes, diabetes can progress rapidly and be more aggressive in children. The condition must be diagnosed and managed in a timely manner. Otherwise, failing which it can lead to other health complications including heart and eye diseases and nerve disorders. While Type 1 diabetes usually has no symptoms, children with Type 2 diabetes may exhibit the following indications.
While insulin therapy is recommended for Type 1 diabetes, for children with Type 2 diabetes, lifestyle corrections are imperative. The right combination of a healthy diet and physical activity are needed in such children and, as adults, the responsibility lies with us to ensure that they develop healthy habits. Some things one can follow include:
The World Health Organisation describes juvenile diabetes as an exploding nightmare and, to come out of this, adults should become role models that children can follow. Diabetes is difficult to manage, especially in children. It needs time and effort and one must ensure that being diagnosed with the condition does not affect a child negatively. Parents must offer constant support and understanding and help them cope with the condition by making necessary lifestyle changes. It is a must to assure them that a diabetes diagnosis is not the end of life.
