Diabetes is affecting younger people: An alarming consequence of modern lifestyles.

In recent years, diabetes is no longer a disease exclusive to the elderly. In many countries, including Vietnam, the incidence of the disease among teenagers and even children is rapidly increasing, becoming a major concern for the health sector. International health organizations note that the number of young people with type 2 diabetes is much higher than a decade ago, linked to trends of overweight, lack of physical activity, and diets high in sugar and fat.

Globally , numerous reports from the International Diabetes Federation (IDF) and epidemiological research agencies indicate a significant increase in the rate of type 2 diabetes diagnosis among children and adolescents over the past 20 years. Several developed countries have seen annual new cases increase many times over compared to the 1990s. In the United States, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has warned that if this trend continues, diabetes will become one of the most common chronic diseases among adolescents in the not-too-distant future.

In Asia, the rate of increase is even faster due to physical characteristics and urbanized lifestyles. Studies show that Asian children are at high risk of developing insulin resistance even with slight weight gain, making the disease more likely to start early. The explosion of sugary drinks and fast food, coupled with children's lack of physical activity and excessive screen time, has created a worrying "combination of risks."

In Vietnam, the number of people with diabetes is increasing steadily every year, and the age group affected is shifting towards younger people. Several healthcare facilities have reported an increase in the number of diabetes cases among children and adolescents – especially those with type 2 diabetes – compared to previous years. Furthermore, the rate of undiagnosed cases remains high, leading to many children only being diagnosed when complications such as dyslipidemia, hypertension, or stage III obesity have already developed.

The causes of this "younger onset" are diverse. A sedentary lifestyle, excessive calorie intake, and a habit of consuming fast food and bottled sugary drinks are leading factors. Urban children often have less time for outdoor activities, while prolonged screen time leads to uncontrolled weight gain. In addition, genetic factors, school stress, and sleep disorders also contribute to the early onset of the disease.

The burden of diabetes in young people is immense. Those diagnosed early face the risk of cardiovascular, eye, kidney, and nerve complications at a very young age, seriously impacting their quality of life and future productivity. The lifelong cost of treatment also places a significant pressure on families and the healthcare system.

Given this situation, experts recommend strengthening early prevention, especially in schools and families. Building a healthy nutritional environment, minimizing sugary drinks, and increasing physical activity for children to at least 60 minutes per day are fundamental measures. Regular screening programs for overweight or obese children, or those with a family history of diabetes, should be implemented for early detection. Meanwhile, at the national level, implementing policies to reduce sugar consumption, developing public spaces for physical activity, and promoting lifestyle changes play a crucial role.

The increasing prevalence of diabetes among younger people is not just a healthcare issue, but a community problem. If we don't act today, many generations will face this chronic disease before reaching adulthood. The concerted efforts of families, schools, healthcare professionals, and society as a whole are key to reversing this alarming trend – protecting our own future.

Source: https://soyte.camau.gov.vn/bai-khoa-hoc-chinh-tri-va-xa-hoi/dai-thao-duong-dang-tre-hoa-bao-dong-tu-loi-song-hien-dai-292283