Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus in Children and Adolescents

We just finished reviewing this topic and wish to share with you some important points about Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (DM) which usually does not require insulin for treatment unlike Type 1 Diabetes which does require Insulin for proper treatment. The incidence of Type 2 DM is rapidly increasing because of the obesity epidemic with minority groups affected more often, especially American Indian and African American youth compared to non-Hispanic white youth. The ability to determine if the child has Type 2 or Type 1 DM can be difficult due to the common symptoms at presentation. However, experts agree there is significant evidence supporting a genetic basis for the development of Type 2 DM. We screen for DM based upon obesity, a family history of DM, ethnic background, findings on physical examination and laboratory findings suggestive of DM. Type 2 DM can be confirmed by an elevated fasting blood sugar greater than 126 mg/dl or an abnormal glucose tolerance test or an elevated hemoglobin A1c level. Treatment is focused upon lifestyle modifications including weight loss and normalization of any abnormal labs. Metformin can be used as an oral medication for treatment if weight loss and lifestyle modification does not result in normalization of laboratory values. Please feel free to call us or make an appointment if you are concerned about DM or other issues with your children’s health.


About author MacKoul Pediatrics

MacKoul Pediatrics is an amazing local pediatrics office in Cape Coral, FL where caring, compassionate doctors and nurses work with you to keep your children as healthy as possible. MacKoul cares for children from birth to college age, from Cape Coral, Fort Myers, Naples, and beyond.