Distance learning, stress, eating junk food and lack of exercise have led to increases in Type 2 diabetes during the COVID-19 pandemic and it has some experts worried about the increase in children.
Dr. Mauricio Flores, a pediatric endocrinologist at Joe DiMaggio Children's Hospital in Wellington, said the increase in kids is concerning because it reflects an increase of diabetes in the general population.
“It feels like we are in an obesity pandemic on top of the (COVID-19) pandemic,” he said.
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During a normal year, Joe DiMaggio Children's Hospital diagnoses around 16% of children that have diabetes with Type 2 diabetes. Between March and October, nearly 40% were diagnosed.
Flores described Type 2 diabetes as the production of a significant amount of insulin that our bodies can’t use. Insulin allows sugar to enter our cells as fuel.
Health problems caused by it include high cholesterol, high blood pressure, joint pain and sleep apnea, a disorder where breathing repeatedly starts and stops.
Signs of Type 2 diabetes include obesity and dark pigmentation of the skin around the neck, underarms, groin and joint-surfaces like the knuckles and elbows.
Flores said that increased urination despite normal water intake is one of the most important symptoms. He also said children may have no energy.
“Kids may say they have to take frequent naps because they’re feeling so fatigued and tired,” he said.
However, Type 2 diabetes is preventable with consistent exercise and a good diet. Parents have to make sure their children avoid eating too many sweets.
Flores says it’s also important to note the cultural influences in our diets.
“With Hispanic, Latino and Caribbean backgrounds, I would say that yes, we love fried foods and carbs. And as long as we monitor portions, I think we should be okay,” Flores said.
He also stresses that parents have to step in and be proper role models. They have to spend time with their families outside.
“It doesn’t take very long, to go out, spend one hour, with your loved ones and have a great time,” he said.
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