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Diabetes in Children and Teens
Reviewed by Medicinsk Expert•Last updated: 2026-10-22•Endocrine System

Diabetes in Children and Teens

While type 1 diabetes was historically the most common form in youth, rising obesity rates have led to an increase in type 2 diabetes among children and teens.

Understanding the Types

Type 1 diabetes, formerly called juvenile diabetes, occurs when the pancreas does not make insulin. Insulin is a hormone that helps glucose (sugar) enter cells to provide energy; without it, excess sugar remains in the blood.

Type 2 diabetes, once known as adult-onset diabetes, occurs when the body does not make or use insulin well. It is becoming increasingly common in younger people due to rising rates of obesity.

Risk Factors and Prevention

Children are at a higher risk for type 2 diabetes if they are overweight or obese, have a family history of the disease, or are inactive. Certain ethnic groups, including African American, Hispanic, Native American/Alaska Native, Asian American, and Pacific Islander children, also face higher risks.

To lower the risk of type 2 diabetes, children should:

  • Maintain a healthy weight
  • Remain physically active
  • Eat smaller portions of healthy foods
  • Limit time spent watching TV, using the computer, or playing video games

Management

Children and teens with type 1 diabetes typically require insulin. Type 2 diabetes may be managed through diet and exercise, though some patients may require oral diabetes medicines or insulin. The A1C blood test is used to monitor how well the condition is being managed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Regular screening is crucial to prevent long-term complications, even if the child feels well. For Type 1 diabetes, annual eye exams by an ophthalmologist are recommended to check for retinopathy, usually starting five years after diagnosis or at puberty, whichever comes first. Kidney function is monitored annually through urine tests for microalbumin and blood tests for creatinine. Foot exams should be performed at least once a year to check for nerve damage or circulation issues. For Type 2 diabetes, screening may begin earlier due to the longer duration of the disease before diagnosis. Additionally, lipid profiles and blood pressure checks are part of routine care to manage cardiovascular risk factors. Consistent attendance at these appointments is vital for early detection and intervention.
dolescence brings significant social and emotional changes that can complicate diabetes management. Teens may experience "diabetes distress," leading to skipped insulin doses, poor diet choices, or hiding their condition from peers to fit in. Practical challenges include managing blood sugar during sports, social events, and school trips. Families can support teens by involving them in decision-making, using technology like continuous glucose monitors (CGMs) to reduce the burden of finger pricks, and maintaining open, non-judgmental communication. It is also helpful to connect with peer support groups where teens can share experiences and coping strategies with others who understand the unique pressures of managing a chronic condition during high school.
Type 1 diabetes often develops rapidly, and early signs include sudden, excessive thirst and frequent urination, which can lead to bedwetting in children who were previously dry. Other key indicators include unexplained weight loss despite a normal or increased appetite, extreme fatigue, and blurred vision. In young children, these symptoms might be mistaken for behavioral issues or a urinary tract infection. If a child exhibits these signs, especially if they occur together, immediate medical testing for blood glucose levels is necessary to rule out Type 1 diabetes, as untreated high blood sugar can lead to a life-threatening condition called diabetic ketoacidosis.
Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune condition where the body produces no insulin, requiring lifelong insulin therapy via injections or a pump. In contrast, Type 2 diabetes involves insulin resistance, meaning the body makes insulin but cannot use it effectively. While Type 2 diabetes in children is often managed with oral medications like metformin alongside lifestyle changes, it is not typically "reversed" in the sense of curing the underlying genetic predisposition. However, significant weight loss and increased physical activity can put the condition into remission, allowing blood sugar levels to normalize without medication for a period. This requires strict, long-term adherence to healthy habits and regular monitoring, as the risk of recurrence is high if lifestyle changes are not sustained.
Source: MedlinePlus, National Library of Medicine

MedlinePlus brings together authoritative health information from the National Library of Medicine (NLM), the National Institutes of Health (NIH), and other government agencies and health-related organizations.

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