Understanding childhood and early-onset of diabetes in India
ETimes November 29, 2025 07:39 AM
Diabetes is no longer just a disease affecting adults. In India, there is an alarming rise in childhood and early-onset diabetes affecting children, teenagers, and young adults - a hidden epidemic that demands immediate awareness and action.
A Growing Burden: India at the Epicenter
Globally, an estimated 1.2 million children and adolescents under 20 years live with type 1 diabetes. According to the ICMR–INDIAB study (2023), India ranks among the top countries with the highest burden of both type 1 and early-onset type 2 diabetes.
Recent Indian data reveal that the prevalence of diabetes among adults younger than 35 years can be as high as 17.9%, and around 9.8% among those under 25 years (Indian Journal of Diabetes in Developing Countries, 2024). This reflects a disturbing shift toward younger onset, driven by rapid lifestyle transitions, rising childhood obesity, and increasing urbanization.
“Children rely on us for care-let’s not miss the signs that could protect their tomorrow.” says Dr. Mohammed Riyaz, Consultant Physician and Diabetologist, Esani diabetes & multi specialty center Hyderabad.
What the Data Reveals: The Face of Young Diabetes in India
A recent study supported by USV Private Limited, a leading healthcare organization that is empowering India’s fight against diabetes and heart disease highlights that many young Indians are diagnosed earlier than their Western counterparts:
Over 60% of young adults with diabetes have a family history of the condition.
Nearly 70% are overweight or obese at diagnosis, linking excess body weight and early-onset disease.
Many report low awareness about early warning signs and delays in seeking care.
These insights reinforce the need for early education, preventive screening, and lifestyle modification from a young age.
Understanding Early-Onset Diabetes: When Youth Meets a Lifelong Disease
Early-onset diabetes refers to diabetes diagnosed before the age of 25 to 35 years. Type 1 diabetes, an autoimmune condition, typically affects children and adolescents and requires lifelong insulin therapy. Type 2 diabetes, once seen only in adults, is now increasingly common among teenagers due to poor diet, stress, and physical inactivity. Both forms demand continuous management, but early-onset type 2 diabetes is especially concerning because it progresses faster and leads to earlier complications.
Why Early-Onset Diabetes Is Dangerous: A Lifetime of Risk
Developing diabetes early means a longer lifetime of high blood sugar exposure, greatly increasing the risk of serious complications such as:
Kidney failure (nephropathy)
Heart disease (cardiovascular complications)
Nerve damage (neuropathy)
Vision loss (retinopathy)
Without timely detection and sustained care, these complications may appear a decade earlier than in patients diagnosed later in life.
Parents, teachers, and caregivers should stay alert to early warning signs of diabetes in children and young adults,including:
Excessive thirst and frequent urination
Unexplained weight loss
Persistent fatigue or irritability
Dark, velvety skin patches (acanthosis nigricans)
If these symptoms appear-especially when there is a family history of diabetes-medical advice should be sought immediately.
What We Can Do: Awareness, Action, and Support
The encouraging fact: early detection and small lifestyle changes can make a big difference.
Regular screening: Routine blood sugar tests help identify diabetes early.
Healthy eating: Encourage meals rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, while limiting sugary and processed foods.
Physical activity: Promote at least 30 minutes of exercise daily-walking, cycling, or outdoor play.
Support systems: Children living with diabetes need emotional encouragement and structured education.
Stress management: Practices like yoga and meditation can help maintain both physical and mental health.
Childhood and early-onset diabetes represent a growing public health challenge in India. By recognizing early signs, promoting regular screening, and nurturing healthy habits, families and communities can protect the next generation.
