Children and Adolescents with Type 2 Diabetes

Course overview

The prevalence of type 2 diabetes is growing among U.S. children and adolescents, which can have long-lasting health effects into adulthood if not properly managed. Obesity is a major contributor to the development of the disease, which could be prevented through healthy lifestyle behaviors such as eating a nutritious diet and being physically active. Not only does type 2 diabetes increase the probability for the development of comorbidities such as retinopathy, cardiovascular disease, and kidney disease, but it also increases the risk for the often-overlooked comorbidity of depression. Diabetes in children and adolescents can cause an emotional burden on both the patient and their family.