Prediabetes in Children and Adolescents

Promo: Is my child at risk for prediabetes and why is prevention important?
Prediabetes is a medical condition defined by elevated blood sugar levels which are not yet high enough for a diagnosis of type 2 diabetes. According to the CDC, approximately 1 in 5 adolescents (ages 12–18) in the United States have prediabetes, reflecting a markedly increased prevalence in association with
rising rates of childhood obesity. Prediabetes is considered a precursor for diabetes, thus early detection, support, and healthy lifestyle habits can change the trajectory of a child’s health. This guide aims to help you recognize the signs and symptoms of prediabetes and provide recommendations for the prevention and treatment of prediabetes in your family. If you have any questions or concerns regarding your child and their risk of prediabetes, we encourage you to contact Dr. Sima Stein, a board certified pediatrician in San Jose, California.

What are the risk factors for prediabetes?

Many factors can increase a child’s risk of developing prediabetes, including sedentary lifestyles, unhealthy diet, family history of diabetes, maternal history of gestational diabetes, and obesity or overweight status.

What are the signs and symptoms of prediabetes?

Children with prediabetes can show no obvious symptoms, however some may experience weight gain, difficulty losing weight, fatigue, delayed wound healing, darkened skin patches on the neck or armpits, and increased thirst, urination, and hunger. In children with risk factors or any clinical findings, screening
is essential to assess a child’s risk of prediabetes and if present, provide early intervention.

How do providers test for prediabetes?

Two commonly ordered tests are a fasting plasma glucose level and hemoglobin A1C. A fasting plasma glucose measures blood sugar levels after not eating for approximately 8 hours and is typically drawn first thing in the morning.. A level between 100-125 mg/dL suggests prediabetes. Another commonly utilized
test, hemoglobin A1C, reflects the average blood sugar levels over the past 2-3 months. A level between 5.7-6.4% indicates prediabetes.

Why is it important to treat prediabetes?

Not only can prediabetes progress to diabetes, but the metabolic changes associated with prediabetes affect the whole body and can lead to the development of cardiovascular disease, chronic kidney disease, and fatty liver disease.

What can my family and I do to prevent prediabetes?

Lifestyle changes, including dietary modifications and increased physical activity, are essential to the treatment and prevention of prediabetes. A diet of whole grains, fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats, with limitation of sugary drinks, snacks, and processed foods, is strongly recommended. With regard to physical activity, children should aim for at least 60 minutes of physical activity every day and screen time should be limited to less than 2 hours per day (excluding schoolwork). Continue annual medical exams with your pediatrician for routine screening and involve the entire family on lifestyle changes to create a positive and supportive environment for your family.
For more information you can contact Dr. Sima Stein, a board certified pediatrician in San Jose, California.