When little lives need big care: Understanding childhood diabetes
Childhood diabetes is a growing concern - and while South Africa lacks comprehensive national data, one trend is clear: 23% of South African children under the age of five are overweight or obese, placing many at higher risk of developing diabetes.
Childhood diabetes includes type 1 and type 2 diabetes diagnosed during childhood and adolescence.
Type 1 diabetes is a life-long autoimmune condition where the body cannot produce insulin, and it remains the most common type of diabetes diagnosed in children.
Type 2 diabetes, once rare in younger age groups, is now increasing. Factors such as reduced physical activity, poor nutrition, and the fact that 23% of children in South Africa live in severe food poverty contribute to this rise.
Recognising the signs and symptoms
Early detection can make a life‑changing difference. Look out for:
If your child shows a combination of these symptoms, seek medical attention immediately. Prompt diagnosis prevents complications and helps ensure your child can live a healthy and active life.
Support from us
At AECI Medical Aid Society, diabetes is recognised as a Prescribed Minimum Benefit (PMB) condition. Should your child be diagnosed and registered on our Chronic Registration Management Programme, they will have access to:
Childhood diabetes is a growing challenge for healthcare systems worldwide. Early detection, proper treatment, and ongoing support will ensure that the youth receive the care and support they need to thrive.
References:
Childhood diabetes includes type 1 and type 2 diabetes diagnosed during childhood and adolescence.
Type 1 diabetes is a life-long autoimmune condition where the body cannot produce insulin, and it remains the most common type of diabetes diagnosed in children.
Type 2 diabetes, once rare in younger age groups, is now increasing. Factors such as reduced physical activity, poor nutrition, and the fact that 23% of children in South Africa live in severe food poverty contribute to this rise.
Recognising the signs and symptoms
Early detection can make a life‑changing difference. Look out for:
- Frequent urination
- Insatiable thirst
- Unexplained weight loss
- Extreme fatigue
- Increased hunger
- Recurring infections
If your child shows a combination of these symptoms, seek medical attention immediately. Prompt diagnosis prevents complications and helps ensure your child can live a healthy and active life.
Support from us
At AECI Medical Aid Society, diabetes is recognised as a Prescribed Minimum Benefit (PMB) condition. Should your child be diagnosed and registered on our Chronic Registration Management Programme, they will have access to:
- Consultations with healthcare professionals
- Medication
- Screenings
- Multidisciplinary care, including access to ophthalmologists and podiatrists
Childhood diabetes is a growing challenge for healthcare systems worldwide. Early detection, proper treatment, and ongoing support will ensure that the youth receive the care and support they need to thrive.
References:
- https://www.unicef.org-southafrica-press-releases-obesity-exceeds-underweight-first-time-among-school-age-children-and-adolescents
- https://www.diabetes.org.uk-living-with-diabetes-life-with-diabetes-children-and-diabetes
- https://www.unicef.org-southafrica-press-releases-23-cent-children-south-africa-live-severe-child-food-poverty
- https://www.diabetes.org.uk-living-with-diabetes-life-with-diabetes-children-and-diabetes-symptoms