Genetic Risk of Diabetes
| Author: Judy Kohn, RN, BSN, CDE |
| Last Updated: Tuesday, October 03, 2006 |
Q: "How likely is it my children will become diabetic? I have type 2 diabetes. My 13-year-old son is concerned about his likelihood of becoming diabetic. He is overweight. There has been a lot in the media lately about the almost epidemic proportion of increasing diabetes among overweight children. Of course, I tell him he is less likely to become diabetic by controlling his weight and by exercising. What are the statistical chances for offspring? What else should I tell my children?"
A: Thank you for asking the question that is on every parent's mind. As you can imagine, there is no exact answer, especially since the research and knowledge about diabetes is always changing, and even the exact cause of diabetes has many components.
Obesity and Inactivity:
It is true that there has been a dramatic rise in type 2 diabetes in children and teens, due to the increase in obesity. Studies have recently shown that our children are getting used to "super-sized" portions, consuming too much fast food and sugary soft drinks, and are less active. So yes, your son could reduce his risk significantly by controlling his weight and adopting a healthy lifestyle with regular activity.
Screening for diabetes:
You should discuss with your doctor regarding how frequently your son should be screened. According to the ADA, there are not yet specific guidelines for screening children, but a study reported in the March 14, 2002 issue of The New England Journal of Medicine reported that 25% of very obese children and 21% of very obese adolescents have pre-diabetes. In 2005 the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates roughly 2 million children ages 12 - 19 have pre-diabetes. So your doctor may want to consider screening your son every one to three years, as is currently recommended for adults with risk factors.
Conclusion:
I have provided additional resources at the end of this answer. You will see a common thread--that there is significant emphasis placed on weight loss and regular activity; furthermore, studies show that family involvement/support can positively affect one's ability to maintain a healthy lifestyle. What this means is that I hope you and your entire family have realized that you alone are not on a "diabetic diet" but rather that the entire family should adopt the same healthy eating and activity patterns.
Naturally, just telling you to have your son "control his weight and get more active" is not enough to solve the problem. I'd recommend you discuss this with your healthcare team-especially your doctor and dietitian-because ideally your son should meet with the dietitian to obtain an individual assessment and meal/activity plan.
Best wishes for good health for you and your family.
Related Questions
Borderline Diabetes = Pre-Diabetes
Q:
"When do you know that you are borderline diabetic?"
Causes of Diabetes
Q:
"How do you get diabetes and is it genetic?"
Related Links
American Diabetes Association (ADA)
http://www.diabetes.org
Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF)
http://www.jdrf.org
National Institute of Diabetes & Digestive & Kidney Diseases
(NIDDK)
http://www.niddk.nih.gov
Important Notice: The responses provided by the team of Diabetes Educators are based on their personal experiences and expertise as practicing diabetes healthcare professionals, and are not to be considered diabetes management advice from Abbott Laboratories. Remember that information provided by the team of Diabetes Educators is for general background purposes and is not intended as a substitute for medical diagnosis or treatment by a trained professional. You should always consult your physician about any healthcare questions you may have, especially before trying a new medication, diet, fitness program, or approach to healthcare issues.
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