Kids at risk of Paediatric Diabetes: What can parents do?

Kids at risk of Paediatric Diabetes: What can parents do?

As a paediatrician on the front lines for over 15 years, I've witnessed the incredible resilience of children. But there's one growing concern that weighs heavily: the rise of paediatric diabetes. This complex condition, once a rarity, now demands a significant portion of my consultations. Yet, what keeps me going is the knowledge that we can fight back.

We face a two-pronged attack. First, there's the formidable Type 1 diabetes, an autoimmune disease where the body's defences target insulin-producing cells. Without insulin, blood sugar levels skyrocket, impacting a child's overall health. Then there's Type 2 diabetes, more common in adults but increasingly affecting children. Here, the body either struggles to produce enough insulin or becomes resistant to its effects.

While the exact cause of Type 1 diabetes remains a scientific mystery, some factors raise a child's vulnerability, like having a close relative with the condition or specific genetic markers. Type 2 diabetes presents a more manageable landscape. Here, the risk factors are within our control: excess weight, physical inactivity, and an unhealthy diet.

So, what's the battle plan? Prevention is our most potent weapon. This is where your paediatrician becomes your partner. Let's work together to instil a love for nutritious foods from a young age. We can create delicious and healthy meal plans that promote growth and development. Promoting physical activity- make movement a family affair, whether it's a bike ride in the park or a dance party in the living room, getting those bodies moving is crucial. If your child is overweight or obese, consulting with your paediatrician and coming up with a personalized weight management plan that incorporates healthy eating and physical activity can be a crucial step.

Early detection saves lives. While we can't prevent Type 1 diabetes, early intervention allows for better management. Here are the warning signs to watch out for -frequent urination and increased thirst, unexplained weight loss, increased hunger, fatigue, and blurred vision. If you notice any of these symptoms, don't hesitate to bring your child in for a checkup. Early diagnosis makes a world of difference.

As a paediatrician, witnessing the joy and resilience of children is what fuels my passion. The future of pediatric health rests on our collective shoulders – parents, paediatricians, and healthcare professionals alike. By empowering parents with knowledge, fostering healthy habits in our children from a young age, and ensuring early detection, we can rewrite the narrative. Imagine a generation where children can play freely, explore their passions, and reach their full potential, unhindered by this chronic condition.

(Author: Dr Nihar Parekh- Lead Paediatrician at SOCC (Second opinion child care) and (Cheers Child Care))

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