The BBC have reported that local councils are finding a “hugely disturbing trend” as the number of cases of children being treated for type 2 diabetes is rising. There are now more than 600 children receiving treatment, with some as young as five.
According to the NHS, type 2 diabetes is strongly linked with being overweight and obesity. Being obese can significantly increase the risk of developing type 2 diabetes, especially within young children.
It is clear to see the direct correlation between the rising number of children with type 2 diabetes and child obesity rates rising. As of 2016, one in five children leaving year 6 were classified as obese, with one in ten children starting in reception.
There are a number of serious health factors that can be caused by type 2 diabetes. The most serious issue is the increased chance of suffering a cardiovascular disease, which can include heart attacks or strokes. There is also increased risks of damage to nerves, the kidneys and the eyes (Mayo Clinic).
It is worrying to see that despite lots of efforts to reduce child obesity and the risk of diabetes, figures are still rising. Having children at such a young age with potentially serious health complications is an issue that clearly needs more support and effort into tackling to help prevent it.
Diabetes UK believe that three in five cases of type 2 diabetes can actually be prevented or delayed through a number of ways. The two easiest and best ways to reduce the risk is by simply eating better and getting more active. By engaging in physical activity and eating a healthy and balanced diet, it can dramatically reduce the chances of becoming overweight.
There are also calls for the Government to ban or limit junk food adverts on TV and also reduce the levels of sugar and fat content within food products that are popular with children. This could be one possible way to deal with the rising number of children with type 2 diabetes.
The Bugs Group believe in promoting physical and healthy eating through our fun and engaging sessions. We introduce children to sport and physical exercise at an early age and create positive experiences so that they are sure to enjoy and keep participating.
Children’s overall well-being is at the forefront of everything we do. Within The Bugs Group we operate as FootieBugs, YogaBugs, DanceBugs and MultiBugs. Each company uses their specific expertise to create programmes specifically tailored to suiting children’s needs and benefiting them.
The way we teach our sessions is through combing sport and physical activity with storytelling and imagination. This means children go on fun adventures and learn through play. Our adventures and sessions can be themed on anything from children’s favourite superheroes to the importance of eating healthily. We aim to promote positive habits to try and counter the rising number of children with type 2 diabetes.
