The Med & Mic™ 04.13.22 A Med & Mic™ EXTRA!
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MED NEWS blog post from Dr. Maria ON Speaking, LLC
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Prediabetes Doubles in American Adolescents
You can’t feel it. You can’t see it. But it will turn up on a blood test. The rates of prediabetes among American children has doubled in the past 20 years.
“Prediabetes is an elevated blood sugar level that is not high enough that it qualifies as diabetic, but it is above a normal blood sugar. Eighty percent of people who are prediabetic are unaware.” The trend alarms Bowie, Maryland anesthesiologist Dr. Sarah Merritt. “It’s a big jump. It’s very concerning.”
Data from the CDC shows that from 1999 to 2018, the rate of prediabetes in adolescents increased steadily from 11.6% to 28.2%. This was noted across income and education levels and ethnicities.
“I think we are seeing it be more and more common in all types of patients,” says Dr. Merritt.
Reasons for the pattern are not known, though Dr. Merritt has a hunch.
“Kids have more screen time,” she points out, “During those hours when you’re on a screen, you’re not outside being active and exercising.”
Prediabetes can signal diabetes ahead. Diabetes can play a part in heart attacks and strokes.
“That might feel all very far away to a child who’s maybe prediabetic, but it’s such an opportunity for intervention,” Dr. Merritt says.
Pediatricians encourage a healthy lifestyle to combat the trend.
Dr. Merritt would agree. “Sometimes some tweaks, some small changes to diet or exercise can be enough.” She says it’s all about the right fuel and physical activity.
Dr. Maria Simbra | Dr. Maria ON Speaking, LLC
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Remember: this post is for informational purposes only and may not be the best fit for you and your personal situation. It shall not be construed as medical advice. The information and education provided here is not intended or implied to supplement or replace professional medical treatment, advice, and/or diagnosis, or the advice of your own physician. Always check with your own physician or medical professional before trying or implementing any information read here.