A study published in the Archives of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine reports that simple body measurements and lab tests may help predict the likelihood of children developing diabetes later in life.
Researchers used data from two long-term studies of children in the U.S. One study collected health information from 822 children who were 12 years old on average. After 22 to 30 years, 5 percent developed diabetes. The researchers found that these childhood factors predicted diabetes at an average age of 39:
These characteristics were linked with a risk for diabetes three to six times higher than for children who did not have these factors.
The second study tested 1,067 girls who were 10 years old on average at the beginning of the study, and followed them for nine years. During this time, eight children developed diabetes. Predictors of diabetes at age 19 were having a parent with diabetes, systolic blood pressure higher than 95 percent of peers, and insulin levels greater than 95 percent of peers. These factors were linked with a risk for diabetes four to 12 times higher than for other children.
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As a parent, you have control over many of your child's risk factors for diabetes--you can take steps to help keep them healthy. Work with your child and your child's doctor to help prevent diabetes. Focus on these three goals:
Encourage a healthy weight.
Promote healthy eating. Stock up on fresh, frozen, canned, or dried fruit and veggies. But leave soft drinks and snacks loaded with fat and calories at the store. At home, plan healthy meals and try to eat meals together. And make sure your child doesn't forgo breakfast. It's key to giving your child the energy needed to listen and learn in school.
Foster physical activity. Risk for diabetes is higher in children who don't get enough physical activity. Kids need about 60 minutes of physical activity every day. Tips such as these can add activity to your child's day:
Talk with your child's doctor if you suspect that your child is at risk for diabetes down the road.