children s health issues
Diabetes Mellitus (DM) in Children and Adolescents
Prevention of Diabetes in Children and Adolescents
Because prompt measures (such as changes in food choices, an increase in physical activity, and weight loss) may help prevent or delay the start of type 2 diabetes, Type 2 diabetes should be screened with a blood test that measures the hemoglobin A1C levels. This test should first be done when children are 10 years old or when puberty starts (if puberty occurred at a younger age) and should be repeated every 3 years if normal. Some risk factors for type 2 diabetes can be prevented. For example, children who are obese should lose weight, and all children should get regular exercise (see Nutrition and exercise ). Nothing can be done to prevent type 1 diabetes. 