TYPE 2 DIABETES IN INDIAN YOUTH: HERE’S HOW SCHOOLS CAN HELP REDUCE THE RISK

Diabetes has become a pressing health issue in India, with alarming trends indicating a rising incidence among both adults and children.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), over 77 million Indians aged 18 and above have type 2 diabetes, and an additional 25 million are prediabetic, placing them at high risk of developing the disease soon. This growing prevalence is concerning, particularly as type 2 diabetes, once rare among younger populations, is now increasingly affecting adolescents aged 12 to 18.

The Indian Journal of Endocrinology and Metabolism highlighted that type 2 diabetes impacts between 0.5% and 1.5% of children and adolescents, a figure that, despite seeming modest, represents a significant increase over previous decades. Approximately 10.4% of Indian adolescents between the ages of 10 and 19 are estimated to be prediabetic, underscoring a troubling trend.

Lifestyle Changes and Rising Diabetes Rates

Urbanization and shifts in lifestyle have contributed significantly to the rise in type 2 diabetes cases among youngsters. Reduced physical activity and increased consumption of processed, high-calorie foods are central factors driving this trend.

The modern sedentary lifestyle, marked by long hours spent in front of screens and a lack of outdoor play, has exacerbated the problem. Stress and rising obesity rates further compound the risk, with a third of Indian teenagers now estimated to have high blood pressure.

This combination of factors is creating an environment where diabetes is increasingly becoming a concern for younger generations. Intervening early to address these lifestyle habits is crucial to prevent the development of diabetes and associated health issues in adulthood.

The Impact of Sedentary Behaviour

The correlation between obesity and type 2 diabetes is well-documented, and rising rates of childhood obesity in India are a major contributor to the increasing incidence of diabetes.

Sedentary behaviour, including insufficient physical activity and prolonged screen time, is prevalent among Indian adolescents, with three out of four being insufficiently active. This lack of exercise, coupled with unhealthy dietary choices, creates a high-risk environment for developing diabetes.

The rise in obesity rates among school-age children further exacerbates the issue, highlighting the urgent need for preventive measures and lifestyle changes.

The Importance of Early Intervention

Addressing the rising burden of diabetes requires a proactive approach, focusing on early intervention and education. Schools represent a pivotal platform for developing healthier lifestyle choices among children and adolescents.

By incorporating health education programs into the curriculum, schools can promote the importance of a balanced diet, regular physical activity, and positive lifestyle habits.

Providing nutritious meals in school cafeterias and limiting the availability of sugary snacks and drinks are practical steps that can help reinforce healthy eating habits.

Promoting Physical Activity and Healthy Eating in Schools

Schools play a critical role in encouraging physical activity and healthy eating among students. Implementing programs that offer opportunities for regular exercise, such as sports and active play, can help counteract the effects of sedentary behaviour.

Routine health screenings within schools can aid in the early detection of diabetes risk factors and enable timely intervention. By fostering a supportive environment that prioritizes health, schools can significantly reduce the risk of diabetes and other related conditions in children.

Creating awareness about diabetes prevention and the importance of early diagnosis is essential for combating the growing prevalence of the disease. Educational initiatives should target not only children but also their families and communities.

According to the World Health Organization, up to 80% of heart disease, 80% of type 2 diabetes, and 40% of cancers can be prevented through three key lifestyle changes: eating a balanced diet, engaging in regular physical activity, and avoiding tobacco.

The Role of Schools in Combating NCDs

Schools are a valuable resource for addressing the non-communicable disease (NCD) crisis, particularly through their ability to influence the behaviours of young individuals.

Research shows that adolescents are highly adaptable, making them an ideal target for health interventions. By prioritizing school-based programs that integrate good dietary practices and regular exercise, the National NCD Monitoring Framework aims to tackle the growing burden of NCDs.

Schools can act as a cornerstone for improving health behaviours and reducing the future prevalence of diseases such as diabetes and heart disease.

By addressing lifestyle factors such as poor diet and lack of physical activity, and by leveraging schools as platforms for health education and intervention, it is possible to limit the cases of diabetes. Early intervention, coupled with community-wide awareness and education, can play a crucial role in preventing diabetes and other related health issues.