World Diabetes Day 2025: Precautions Parents Can Take To Prevent Childhood Diabetes

November 14th marks World Diabetes Day, an important time to spotlight a growing concern of childhood diabetes. While Tyoe 1 diabetes is an unpreventable autoimmune condition, the rising tide of Type 2 diabetes in children is often linked to lifestyle, making prevention a key focus for every family.

We consulted Dr Akshay Chipare, Consultant Physician at Vencer Hospital, Pune, to understand childhood diabetes and the essential precautions parents can take to prevent Type 2 diabetes in children.

What is Childhood Diabetes?

According to Dr Chipare, childhood diabetes is a group of conditions where a child's body struggles to regulate blood sugar, mainly due to issues with the hormone insulin.

1. Type 1 Diabetes: This is an autoimmune condition where the body procudes little or no insulin. It requires lifelong insulin therapy as injections or pumps.

2. Type 2 Diabetes: More common in older, overweight or inactive children, the body becomes resistant to insulin. It is often manageable with lifestyle changes and medication, but sometimes requires insulin.

3. Monogenic or Neonantion Diabetes: A rare form caused by single-gene mutations.

"While genetics play a role, especially in Type 1 diabetes, the rising incidence of Type 2 diabetes is strongly tied to modern lifestyle factors like obesity, sugary drinks and physical inactivity," says Dr Chipare.

Warning Signs Parents Must Never Ignore

Early detection is essential. Parents should be vigilant of these symptoms.

1. Frequent urination and thirst: Excessive thirst (polydipsia) and urinating often (polyuria), including bed-wetting after being toilet-trained.

2. Unexplained weight loss: Losing weight despite a good appetite.

3. Fatigue and mood changes: Unusual tiredness, irritability, or a sudden drop in school performance.

4. Skin patches: Dark, velvety patches of skin (Acanthosis Nigricans) on the neck or underarms (often Type 2 Diabetes).

5. Fruity breath and vomiting: Fruity-smelling breath, vomiting, abdominal pain, or deep breathing can signal Diabetic Ketoacidosis (DKA).

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Steps Parents Can Take To Prevent Childhood Diabetes

While Type 1 diabetes cannot be prevented, Dr Chipare explains that parents have significant power to prevent Type 2 diabetes by focusing on family-based healthy habits.

1. Prioritise Nutrition and Hydration

Dr Chipare advises to limit sugar drinks. "This is the single most important step. Swap sodas, fruits juices and sports drinks for water."

Additionally, ensure daily meals are rich in vegetables, whole grains and lean proteins. "Children imitate family behaviour, so parents should actively model good eating habits themselves," recommends Dr Chipare.

2. Encourage Daily Activity

Aim for at least 60 minuts of physical activity daily. "This should be fun, active, outdoor play, not just organised sports," says Dr Chipara, adding that reducing sedentary screen time automatically increases the opportunit for movement.

3. Maintain a healthy environment

Ensure children get enough quality sleep. "Sleep deprivation can affect metabolism and weight," explains Dr Chipare.

Adding to this, for children who are overweight or have a strong family history of Type 2 diabetes, discuss routine screening for blood glucose or HbA1c levels with these pediatrician, usually starting from age 10 or after puberty.

Parents are the frontline defense against childhood diabetes. "By adopting an active lifestyle, health eating and vigilance, families can actively protect their children's future health and ensure they grow up strong, active and free from the risks of preventable diabetes.

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Image courtesy: Freepik

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