Child diabetes and genetics: early identification and intervention
Diabetes, a disease known as the “sweet burden”, may begin to affect the health of children in childhood. Understanding the genetic risk factors of diabetes in children is essential for early identification and intervention.
The incidence of diabetes in children is closely linked to genetic factors. Type 1 diabetes (T1DM) and type 2 diabetes (T2DM) have genetic tendencies. Type 1 diabetes is associated with the genetic susceptibility of the human white cell antigen (HLA) gene spot, while other than HLA genes such as PTPN22 can also improve prediction capabilities. Type 2 diabetes is associated with multiple genetic sites and has a more significant genetic bias. In family history, children are at higher risk if their parents or siblings are diabetic.
Early identification of genetic markers of childhood diabetes can help us intervene earlier. For type 1 diabetes, high-risk children can be identified by testing HLA genetics and insulin self-antibodies. For type 2 diabetes, an insulin receptor genetic test may be necessary if a child displays severe insulin resistance without obesity. In addition, genetic tests should be carried out for children with diabetes who have developed a disease before June.
Genetic counselling is particularly important for children with diabetes family history. Through genetic counselling, parents and children are informed about the risks of disease and preventive measures. Lifestyle interventions are also key to reducing genetic risks. A reasonable mix of diets, less junk food, less sugary drinks, more vegetables and fruit groceries. Increased sports, with at least one to two hours of aerobics per day, such as running, swimming, riding or dancing, help reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes among children and adolescents.
In general, the incidence of diabetes in children is closely related to genetics, and early identification and intervention are essential for the prevention and control of diabetes. Through genetic counselling and lifestyle interventions, we can reduce the genetic risk of diabetes in children and protect their health.
