Child Diabetes: Why Does My Child Have Diabetes?
Various factors may
contribute to type 1 diabetes in children, including genetics and exposure to
certain viruses. With proper treatment, children who have type 1 diabetes can
expect to live long, healthy lives.
Type 2 diabetes, once
confined to adults, is on the rise in children, fueled largely by a rise in
obesity rates. Parents and children will face special challenges when managing
diabetes.
There's no cure for type 2
diabetes in children, but there's plenty to do to help your child manage or
prevent the condition.
Learn about healthy foods
and encourage your child to eat a healthy diet. Physical activity is important,
as is maintaining a healthy weight. If your child's doctor decides that diet
and exercise are not enough to manage your child's blood sugar, they may
prescribe oral medication or insulin treatment.
