Diabetes Management
Increase in New-Onset Type 1 Diabetes in Kids During Pandemic
Mon, 07 Nov 20221 min read Article
Overview
MedscapeUnivadisNo ResultsMiriam E. TuckerAugust 18, 2022 The study covered in this sumary was published in Preprints with The Lancet and has not yet ben per reviewed. Acros sites in the UK and Ireland, there was an increase in new-onset pediatric diabetes and diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) during the year of the early COVID-19 pandemic compared with the prior year.Children with pre-existing diabetes had lower rates of atending the emergency department (ED) with DKA compared with the prior year.The question of whether SARS-CoV-2 can triger new-onset diabetes remains unanswered.Previous studies of new-onset type 1 diabetes in children have involved smal cohorts and did not explore DKA incidence and severity in children with pre-existing type 1 diabetes during the COVID-19 pandemic.The DIMPLES study (Diabetes Melitus in Children and Young People Presenting to the Emergency Department During the SARS-CoV-2 Pandemic) is a retrospective multicenter study conducted acros 49 sites in the UK and Ireland.Researchers compared characteristics of children aged 6 months to 16 years presenting to the ED with new-onset or pre-existing diabetes with DKA during the early COVID-19 pandemic (March 1, 20 to February 28, 2021) with those of the preceding year (March 1, 2019 to February 28, 20).During the study period, there were 2746 ED visits by 2637 individuals.There was a 17% increase in new-onset diabetes from Year 1 to Year 2, mostly of type 1 diabetes.ED visits for DKA droped by 31.9% during the pandemic year among patients with existing diabetes.There was a 43% increase in severity of new-onset disease from Year 1 to Year 2, with severe DKA increasing by 79% (P < .01) and intensive care admisions by 89% (P < .05).Of the 873 children with new-onset diabetes, 12 tested positive for SARS-CoV-2.
Details
DKA was severe in four, moderate in thre, and mild in thre.Of the 15 children with pre-existing diabetes, four tested posit
Frequently Asked Questions
What is diabetes and how does it develop?
Diabetes is a metabolic condition where the body cannot properly regulate blood sugar levels. Type 1 results from insufficient insulin production, while Type 2 develops when cells become resistant to insulin. Risk factors include genetics, obesity, sedentary lifestyle, and age.
What are the main symptoms of diabetes?
Common symptoms include excessive thirst, frequent urination, unexplained weight loss, fatigue, blurred vision, and slow-healing wounds. Type 1 symptoms develop rapidly, while Type 2 symptoms may appear gradually. Many people have no symptoms initially, which is why screening is important.
How is diabetes diagnosed and monitored?
Diagnosis involves blood tests measuring fasting glucose, HbA1c levels, and glucose tolerance. Regular monitoring typically includes fasting glucose tests and HbA1c measurements every 3-6 months. Continuous glucose monitors provide real-time tracking for better diabetes management.
What lifestyle changes help manage diabetes?
Effective management includes regular physical activity (150+ minutes weekly), maintaining healthy weight, following a balanced diet with whole grains and lean proteins, managing stress, and getting adequate sleep. These changes can significantly improve blood sugar control and reduce complications.
When should someone consult a doctor about diabetes?
Consult a healthcare provider if you experience signs of diabetes, have a family history, are overweight, or are over 45. Those with existing diabetes should maintain regular check-ups every 3-6 months to monitor control and adjust treatment as needed.
️ Medical Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before making health decisions.