From diagnosis to daily care: What every parent should know about juvenile diabetes
Juvenile diabetes, or Type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM), is an autoimmune condition where the pancreas produces little to no insulin. Unlike Type 2 diabetes, T1DM is not linked to lifestyle factors and often manifests in children and adolescents. In India, the prevalence of T1DM among children is rising, yet awareness and resources remain limited.advertisementTHE GROWING BURDEN IN INDIA
India has the highest number of children and adolescents living with T1DM globally. According to the International Diabetes Federation (IDF) Diabetes Atlas 2021, approximately 1.2 million individuals aged 0-19 years are affected worldwide, with India contributing a significant portion. Studies indicate a higher prevalence in urban areas compared to rural regions. For instance, in Karnal, Haryana, the prevalence is 26.6 per 100,000 in urban areas versus 4.27 per 100,000 in rural settings.Aarav Mehta, 16, student from Mumbai"Living with Type 1 diabetes isn't about being perfect every day - it's about being prepared. I carry my insulin kit like I carry my phone - always with me, always charged. It's just part of life now."RECOGNISING THE SYMPTOMS
Early detection is crucial. Common symptoms include:
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A study from B.J. Medical College, Ahmedabad, found that polyuria and polydipsia were present in 81.4% of pediatric T1DM cases."Type 1 diabetes, also called juvenile diabetes, is a disease in which the pancreas makeslittle or no insulin, a hormone that enables sugar to enter cells and be used for energy. Children orteenagers are the most often affected demographic. It is, however, not a resultof lifestyle and cannot be prevented, unlike Type 2 diabetes. Type1 diabetes is an autoimmune disease and is closely related to genetic susceptibility, but there may be environmental factors as well. There is no cure for it, but early diagnosis and lifelong insulin treatment, as well as a strict diet and regular monitoring,help control the disease and prevent complications."Dr. Ritesh Agarwal, Consultant - Endocrinologist, Manipal Hospital, BhubaneshwarMANAGEMENT AND TREATMENTManaging T1DM requires a comprehensive approach:Insulin Therapy: Multiple daily injections or insulin pumpsBlood Glucose Monitoring: Regular checks to maintain optimal levelsDietary Management: Balanced meals with controlled carbohydrate intakePhysical Activity: Regular exercise to improve insulin sensitivityThe Ahmedabad study highlighted that the basal-bolus insulin regimen achieved better glycemic control with fewer hypoglycemic events compared to the split-mix regimen.Dr. Renu Khanna, Pediatric Endocrinologist "Type 1 diabetes in children is not a lifestyle disease - it's an autoimmune condition that demands lifelong commitment. With the right support, education, and access to insulin, these kids can lead full, active lives just like any other child."CHALLENGES IN INDIAadvertisementDespite medical advancements, several challenges persist:Lack of Awareness: Many are unaware that children can develop diabetes.Limited Access to Care: Especially in rural areas, access to insulin, monitoring devices, and trained healthcare professionals is inadequate.Financial Constraints: The cost of lifelong insulin therapy and monitoring can be prohibitive for many families.Psychosocial Impact: Children may face stigma, leading to emotional and psychological stress.Dr. Brij Makkar, President of the Research Society for the Study of Diabetes in India (RSSDI), said in a research report "With an estimated 8.6 lakh T1D patients in India, we cannot afford to overlook the urgent needs of children living with this condition.ADDRESSING JUVENILE DIABETES IN INDIA REQUIRES:Enhanced Awareness Campaigns: Educating the public about T1DM symptoms and management.Strengthening Healthcare Infrastructure: Ensuring availability of insulin and monitoring tools across the country.Training Healthcare Professionals: Specialised training for the early diagnosis and management of paediatric diabetes.Policy Implementation: Integrating T1DM care into national health programs to provide structured supportBy prioritising these steps, India can improve outcomes for children with T1DM, ensuring they lead healthy and fulfilling lives.advertisement Note: This article is for informational purposes and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult a healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment.Must Watch
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