
December 18, 2007
Type 2 in Youth
Question from Leon, Mexico:
Are there any surveys about the risk factors for the development of type 2 diabetes in children? Is there anything about nutrition/food habits, physical activity, etc.?
Answer:
I am afraid that the answer to type 2 development in children is likely the exact same thing as in adults: obesity, especially central obesity, acanthosis nigricans, lipid and blood pressure abnormalities, premature adrenarche, polycystic ovarian disease – all related factors. Genetic factors are less well identified but, likely, also very important since type 2 diabetes clearly “runs in families.” Prior history of small for gestational age birth looks like it also may be a risk factor.
SB