The Care of Children and Adolescents With Type 2 Diabetes

The prevalence of Type 2 diabetes has dramatically increased in children and adolescents over the past 10 years. Type 2 diabetes is characterized by insulin resistance and high insulin levels. Reasons cited for the rise of this condition in children and adolescents are speculated to stem from obesity because of a rise in sedentary behavior, nonnutritious food choices, and genetic predisposition. A high recurrence rate in families shows that therapy for children and adolescents must involve the entire family to be successful. Treatment recommendations vary depending on severity but include nutrition, exercise, and medication. Assessment of the patient's and family's willingness to change their current lifestyle behaviors is an integral part of treatment. Nutrition and exercise goals should be made on an individual basis to meet the needs of the patient. Success of therapy is difficult to measure because this is a chronic condition being diagnosed in young people. As in any chronic condition, success of therapy is difficult to measure.