Covid pandemic linked to surge in child and teen diabetes

Cross-posted from: https://fediverse.boo/m/bbc_news/t/23981

Summary

There has been an unusual rise in the number of children and teenagers around the world diagnosed with type 1 diabetes since Covid, say researchers.

The incidence rate of childhood type 1 diabetes was already increasing - by about 3% a year.

Researchers from the University of Toronto say, regardless of the cause, more resources and support may be needed for the growing number of children and adolescents affected by type 1 diabetes.

Another hypothesis is that exposure to some germs in childhood can help guard against a number of conditions, including diabetes.

Hilary Nathan, Policy Director at type 1 diabetes charity JDRFUK, said: "This research reflects a life-changing reality for so many families here in the UK.".

Theo, now 9, was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes a year ago.

Dr Faye Riley, from Diabetes UK, said: "Research worldwide has identified higher than expected numbers of diabetes diagnoses in the wake of the Covid-19 pandemic. This study adds to the evidence."Future studies that examine longer-term trends will be important to disentangle the impact of the pandemic from natural fluctuations in incidence of type 1 over time, as well as establishing the range of factors that could be behind any apparent rise.