Rising tide: The global surge of type 2 diabetes in children and adolescents demands action now

Abstract

Childhood-onset obesity has emerged as a major public healthcare challenge across the globe, fueled by an obesogenic environment and influenced by both genetic and epigenetic predispositions. This has led to an exponential rise in the incidence of type 2 diabetes mellitus in children and adolescents. The looming wave of diabetes-related complications in early adulthood is anticipated to strain the healthcare budgets in most countries. Unless there is a collective global effort to curb the devastation caused by the situation, the impact is poised to be pro-found. A multifaceted research effort, governmental legislation, and effective social action are crucial in attaining this goal. This article delves into the current epidemiological landscape, explores evidence concerning potential risks and consequences, delves into the pathobiology of childhood obesity, and discusses the latest evidence-based management strategies for diabesity.

Keywords: Childhood obesity; Diabesity; Type 2 diabetes mellitus; Adolescence; Cardiovascular disease; Pharmacotherapy

Core Tip: Obesity is a significant contributor to various lifestyle-related diseases in both children and adolescents, akin to its impact on adults. A particularly concerning outcome of childhood obesity is early-onset type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), making substantial global healthcare challenges in recent times. The tandem occurrence of both obesity and T2DM gives rise to a myriad of metabolic and nonmetabolic complications in early adulthood. Without swift and decisive actions from the scientific community, socio-political organizations, and governments, the impending toll of these emerging pandemics is poised to adversely affect healthcare budgets worldwide.