PEDIATRIC DIABETES RESEARCH CENTER

Type 2 Diabetes

If the current rates of obesity continue to persist, it is estimated that one-third of American children born each year since 2000, will develop Type 2 diabetes, according to the American Diabetes Association. The leading risk factor for kids is being overweight, often connected with an unhealthy diet and lack of physical activity.

Although adults have a higher risk of getting Type 2 diabetes, the condition is affecting more young people today. One-third of American children born each year since 2000, will develop Type 2 diabetes, according to the American Diabetes Association. The leading risk factor for kids is being overweight, often connected with an unhealthy diet and lack of physical activity.

Preventing Type 2 Diabetes

Unlike Type 1 Diabetes, Type 2 diabetes is often preventable with lifestyle changes. To lower one’s risk to develop Type 2 diabetes, one can:

  • Eat a healthy diet
  • Exercise for 30 minutes, 5 days a week
  • Maintain a healthy weight
  • Talk to a primary care provider about being screened for prediabetes