Rising Threat of Type 2 Diabetes in Younger Adults

Original Article: https://www.medscape.com/s/viewarticle/early-t2d-diagnosis-heightens-risks-complications-death-2024a1000jm3

Type 2 Diabetes Is Increasing in Young Adults

Type 2 diabetes used to mainly affect older adults, but cases in people aged 18–39 years are rising rapidly, with a 40% increase in the UK between 2016 and 2023. People diagnosed younger face more severe symptoms and are also more likely to be obese, struggle with blood sugar control, and have more insulin resistance. Even more concerning, type 2 diabetes diagnosed at a young age leads to a faster rate of developing serious complications and a higher risk of health problems compared with those diagnosed later in life.

Young Adults Face Higher Risks

Compared to those diagnosed after age 40, young adults with type 2 diabetes are more likely to develop eye and kidney damage, even if they’ve had diabetes for the same length of time. If someone is diagnosed in their 30s, their lifetime risk of heart and kidney disease may be as high as 80%.

Early and Intensive Treatment Is Crucial

To manage this growing crisis, health systems need to create programs to help younger patients control their weight, blood sugar, and heart health. Additionally, culturally sensitive healthcare and national guidelines are essential to support young people from diverse backgrounds who are affected by type 2 diabetes at a critical age.