Pediatric type 2 diabetes rates rise significantly in Mexico

Dr. Ana Lilia Rodríguez Ventura, a specialist in pediatric endocrinology from UNAM, has warned of a concerning rise in type 2 diabetes among children and adolescents. During a health science conference, she noted that the prevalence of type 2 diabetes in pediatric cases has increased from 2% to between 8% and 45%.

Research from the multicenter Today study involving over 700 youths revealed that half of the participants required insulin within two years of diagnosis. This rate is significantly higher than that observed in adults. Key risk factors identified include childhood obesity and maternal diabetes during pregnancy.

Dr. Rodríguez Ventura emphasized that while genetics contribute approximately 20% to 30% of cases, adiposity is the primary driver. She advocated for early education regarding healthy eating, regular exercise, mental health, and proper sleep hygiene to reverse these trends.