Diabetes on track to increase 700% in young Americans

The number of young Americans with type 2 diabetes is projected to skyrocket nearly 700% by 2060 if current upward trends continue unchecked, according to a “startling” new report from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the National Institutes of Health.

Meanwhile, a jump of up to 65% is likely in young people with type 1 diabetes, according to a new study was published in the medical journal of the American Diabetes Association.

“This new research should serve as a wake-up call for all of us,” said Dr. Debra Houry, CDC’s acting principal deputy director. it is stated in the press release. “It is important that we focus our efforts on ensuring that all Americans, especially our young people, are the healthiest they can be.”

More than 37 million Americans—about 1 in 10—already have incurable diabetes, making the seventh leading cause of death in the people. Average medical costs for those living with it can redeem $16,752 year, according to the latest ADA data.

Type 1 diabetes – in which the pancreas produces little or no insulin – is more common in people under 20 in the US. However, type 2 diabetes — when the body can’t process insulin the way it should — has “increased significantly” in this demographic over the past two decades, the research team reported.

In addition to overall “surge” projections, analyzing the data by race and ethnicity predicted a “higher burden” of type 2 diabetes for “Black, Hispanic/Latino, Asian, Pacific Islander, and American Indian/Alaska Native youth.”

The researchers say the “alarming” growth rate could be driven by multiple factors – ranging from gestational diabetes in women of childbearing age (since their children are more likely to develop the disease) and deep-seated prevalence of childhood obesity in American culture.

“This study’s surprising projections for the rise of type 2 diabetes show why it is critical to advance health equity and reduce the widespread disparities that are already taking a toll on people’s health,” said Christopher Holliday, director of CDC’s Diabetes Translation Division.

Most common health complications of diabetes they include heart disease, chronic kidney disease, nerve damage – and a myriad of other ailments related to foot, oral, vision, hearing and mental health.

Meanwhile, the disease can intensify at a faster rate in young people than in adults, requiring earlier medical treatment, the researchers noted.

“The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted how critically important it is to address chronic diseases, such as diabetes,” added Houry. “This study further underscores the importance of continued efforts to prevent and manage chronic disease, not only for our current population but for generations to come.”