KARACHI: Incidence of diabetes in children increasing
KARACHI, Dec 12: The rising incidence of the type two diabetes in children below the age of 12 years, a phenomenon unknown until 10 years ago, is attributed to increasing obesity in this age group.
Diabetologists from different parts of the world cite excessive consumption of aerated drinks and fast foods as major contributory factors exposing children to the disease.
Physical inactivity due to lack of playgrounds in schools, prolonged viewing of televisions and sitting before the computer further aggravates the situation.
Health-care providers agree that all children of the age five years and above should maintain a normal weight by undertaking regular physical activity.
Poor nourishment of the foetus and low birth weight are also cited as significant etiological factors increasing the risk of metabolic syndrome and the type two diabetes, which might further be aggravated due to postnatal over-nutrition.
Experts suggest primary prevention of the disease and provision to facilitate the introduction of programmes tailored to local circumstances. Concerted efforts to create awareness, promotion of education at all levels and multi-sectoral advocacy are also recommended.—APP
