Prevent diabetes among children

Traditionally found in adults, the diabetes is no longer limited to the age group as it has increasingly been affecting children and teenagers with the latest report ‘Children in India 2025’ by the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation, revealing that 9.7 per cent of 10-19-year-old adolescents in Jammu and Kashmir are in a pre-diabetic stage. The growing footprint of diabetes among children and adolescents signals a worrying shift in lifestyle and health patterns. The findings are a stark warning. Pre-diabetes at such a young age significantly raises the risk of developing Type-2 diabetes, cardiovascular diseases and other chronic complications early in life. Sedentary lifestyles, excessive screen time, unhealthy diets rich in sugar and processed foods, declining physical activity and rising stress levels are key contributors to this trend. Rapid urbanisation and changing food habits have further distanced children from traditional, healthier lifestyles. If left unaddressed, the consequences could be severe. Early-onset diabetes not only compromises quality of life but also places a long-term burden on families and the healthcare system. Productivity losses, rising medical costs and increased vulnerability to other non-communicable diseases could undermine the region’s social and economic well-being. Addressing this challenge requires a multi-pronged approach. Schools must become the first line of defence by promoting physical education, healthy eating habits and regular health screenings. Awareness campaigns targeting parents and children are essential to encourage balanced diets, reduced sugar intake and active lifestyles. Primary healthcare systems should prioritise early detection through routine screening and counselling, especially for high-risk groups. The rising prevalence of pre-diabetes among adolescents in Jammu and Kashmir is a wake-up call and acting at this juncture can help in preventing a looming health crisis and ensure a healthier future generation.