- Juvenile diabetes, or Type 1 diabetes, is an autoimmune condition among children.
- Factors that increase the risk of juvenile diabetes include genetics, exposure to certain viruses, autoimmune response, age, and geography.
- Preventive measures include choosing a fun physical activity, maintaining a healthy diet, getting vaccinated, and monitoring blood sugar levels.
- Genetics can play a significant role in type 1 diabetes; if one parent has it, the risk of their child developing it is 10%, and if both have it, the risk increases to 25%.
- Proper management allows children with juvenile diabetes to live an everyday life despite having the condition.
Juvenile diabetes, or Type 1 diabetes, is a chronic autoimmune disease affecting millions of children and young adults worldwide. It occurs when the body produces little insulin, which regulates blood sugar levels. Unlike Type 2 diabetes, which is caused mainly by poor diet and lifestyle choices, several factors contribute to the development of juvenile diabetes. Here’s what you need to know about it.
A Look Into Juvenile Diabetes
Juvenile diabetes is another term commonly used to refer to type 1 diabetes. The body’s immune destroys the cells in the pancreas, resulting in a shortage of insulin. This causes difficulties in regulating blood sugar levels and is known as type 1 diabetes, a long-term autoimmune disorder.
The term “juvenile diabetes” originated because type 1 diabetes is often diagnosed in children, adolescents, and young adults. However, it is essential to note that type 1 diabetes can develop at any age, including adulthood.
Common symptoms of type 1 diabetes include increased thirst and urination, unexplained weight loss, excessive fatigue, constant hunger, blurred vision, frequent infections, and more.
Risk Factors For Juvenile Diabetes
Some children are more susceptible to juvenile diabetes than others. Here are some of them:
Genetic Factors
Research has shown that genetics play a significant role in the development of juvenile diabetes. Children with a family history of diabetes are more likely to develop the condition. Studies have found that if one parent has Type 1 diabetes, the risk of their child developing the condition is approximately 10%. If both parents have the condition, the risk increases to 25%.
Environmental Triggers
While genetics may be a factor, several environmental triggers can increase the risk of developing juvenile diabetes. These include exposure to certain viruses, such as the rotavirus and adenovirus, and specific antibodies in the body.
Autoimmune Response
Juvenile diabetes is an autoimmune disease, which means the body’s immune system can reduce the cells produced by the pancreas. It is not yet clear why the immune system turns on these cells. However, research has shown that certain factors, such as infections and other autoimmune disorders, can trigger the immune system to attack the pancreas.
Age
As the name suggests, juvenile diabetes typically affects children and young adults under 20. While the condition can occur at any age, it is most commonly diagnosed in children between the ages of 4 and 7 and again in children between the ages of 10 and 14. The condition is less common in those over the age of 30.
Geography
Finally, geography can also play a role in the development of juvenile diabetes. The condition is more common in colder climates like Scandinavia, Finland, and Canada. It is less common in warmer regions, such as Africa and Asia. This suggests that environmental factors, such as viral infections, may play a role in developing the disease.
Preventing Juvenile Diabetes
There are some ways to reduce the risk of developing juvenile diabetes. Here are some of those ways:
Choose a Fun Physical Activity
It’s important to choose a fun physical activity for your children to maintain fit during their childhood. One of the best activities you can do monthly is to rent an affordable bounce house. It’s a great way to get them moving while having fun. It can also be a social option for your children. They can play with other kids in the bounce house, a great way to maintain their mental and social health.
Maintain a Healthy Diet
A healthy diet can help reduce your child’s risk of developing juvenile diabetes. Encourage them to eat foods low in fat, sugar, and processed carbs as much as possible. Ensure they get plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats daily. Eating a balanced diet will also help check their blood sugar levels.
Get Vaccinated
The rotavirus vaccine has been found to protect against type 1 diabetes in some cases. Be sure to discuss this with your pediatrician if you have concerns about your child’s susceptibility to juvenile diabetes.
Monitor Blood Sugar Levels
Regularly monitoring your child’s blood sugar levels can help you identify any issues before they become serious. Ask your pediatrician the appropriate range for your child and how often they need to be tested. This is especially important if there is a history of diabetes in your family.
Juvenile diabetes can be problematic for your children. You can help reduce their risk by taking the above steps. Encouraging them to eat healthy, get vaccinated, and remain active can greatly reduce their chances of developing this condition. Proper management allows your child to lead a normal life despite having juvenile diabetes.
