Diabetes is no longer just a condition affecting adults — it’s increasingly impacting kids and teens across the United States. A recent study examining trends from 2002 to 2017 warns that this public health issue may grow significantly worse by 2060.

The study focused on both type 1 and type 2 diabetes in people under the age of 20. It used historical data and mathematical models to project how many young people could be diagnosed with diabetes in the future.

• Type 1 diabetes occurs when the body doesn’t produce enough insulin, a hormone needed to regulate blood sugar. It is typically not preventable.
• Type 2 diabetes develops when the body becomes resistant to insulin over time. It can sometimes be delayed or prevented through healthy eating, physical activity, and weight management.

Projected Increases by 2060

Researchers developed two possible scenarios:

1. Constant Incidence: If current diagnosis rates stay the same…
   • Type 1 diabetes cases would stay relatively stable.
   • Type 2 diabetes cases could increase by around 70%.
2. Increasing Incidence: If trends continue as they have…
   • Type 1 diabetes cases could rise by about 65%.
   • Type 2 diabetes cases could skyrocket by nearly 700%.

Why This Matters

The sharp projected increase — especially in type 2 diabetes — is alarming. This rise may reflect growing rates of childhood obesity, poor diet, and low physical activity levels. It signals a pressing need for early intervention, better access to healthy foods, more opportunities for exercise, and ongoing public health education.

What Can Be Done?

While type 1 diabetes cannot currently be prevented, many cases of type 2 diabetes might be avoided. Encouraging healthier lifestyles among children and teens — and addressing social and environmental barriers — can help slow this trend.

As this research makes clear, taking action now is essential to prevent a future where diabetes becomes a norm rather than an exception for too many young people.

The seeds of lifelong health are planted early. The habits kids build today can protect them from diabetes tomorrow—and it starts with simple steps at home, in school, and throughout the community.

Fuel for Life: Healthy Eating Made Fun

Forget the food fights—healthy eating can be delicious and empowering.

• Load up on colorful fruits, crunchy veggies, whole grains, and lean proteins.
• Cut back on sugary drinks, fast food, and snacks that come in crinkly packages.
• Get kids involved in the kitchen. Let them pick recipes, stir the sauce, or chop (safely!). It’s more than a meal—it’s a life skill.

Play Hard, Live Well: Move Every Day

Children need at least 60 minutes of movement daily—and it doesn’t have to be boring!

• Turn chores into dance-offs, walks into adventures, and screen time into playtime.
• Biking to the park, shooting hoops, or just running around the backyard all count.
• Less sitting, more doing. That’s the recipe for strong bodies and sharp minds.

Sleep Like a Superpower

Did you know poor sleep can mess with hormones and increase the risk of diabetes?

• A consistent bedtime routine helps regulate hunger, mood, and energy levels.
• Power down devices an hour before bed—sleep is sacred!

Checkups Aren’t Just for Sick Days

Regular visits to the doctor can catch problems early—before they become serious.

• Pediatricians track growth, weight, and overall health.
• If a child is at higher risk, screening for blood sugar levels can make a big difference.

Stronger Together: Healthy Habits at Home and Beyond

Creating a healthy environment takes a team effort.

• Schools can serve balanced meals and keep kids active with recess and P.E.
• Communities can build safe parks, bike paths, and offer fresh foods nearby.
• Families are the front line—modeling healthy habits and cheering kids on every step of the way.

Tiny Changes, Huge Payoffs

You don’t need to overhaul your life overnight. One healthy meal, one walk around the block, one earlier bedtime—it all adds up.

Diabetes doesn’t have to be part of our kids’ future. With small, steady steps and lots of love, we can help the next generation grow up strong, confident, and full of life.

Let’s start today.