In Malaysia, type 2 diabetes is no longer just an adult health concern. Children as young as 14 are now being diagnosed with the condition, according to a recent statement by Health Minister Yang Berhormat Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly bin Ahmad.
Once considered an adult disease, type 2 diabetes is now affecting Malaysian children as young as 14, highlighting the importance of early detection and healthier habits.
According to Dr Ch’ng Tong Wooi, Consultant Paediatrician and Paediatric Endocrinologist at Sunway Medical Centre, Sunway City (SMC), this is a trend paediatricians have been witnessing for years.
“This is more than an alarming statistic. It signals a growing public health crisis because type 2 diabetes that develops during adolescence is often far more aggressive than when it develops later in adulthood,” she said.
For teenagers, the consequences can be particularly serious. Living with diabetes for decades increases their risk of kidney disease, heart disease, nerve damage and vision loss. This makes early detection and intervention crucial.
Why Are More Children At Risk Of Type 2 Diabetes?
Obesity remains the biggest risk factor, but it is not the only one.
According to the National Health and Morbidity Survey (NHMS) 2024, two in three adolescents consume more than 7.5 teaspoons of free sugar daily, exceeding the recommended maximum of six teaspoons.
Diets low in fruits, vegetables and dairy products, sedentary lifestyles and excessive screen time also contribute to obesity and insulin resistance among children.
Family history is another important factor. One major study found that nearly 59.6% of adolescents with type 2 diabetes had a parent or sibling with the condition, while almost 89% had an affected grandparent.
“Asian children can develop insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes at lower body weight than Western populations. Some children who appear healthy may be vulnerable if they have a family history or other metabolic risk factors, hence it’s important to speak to doctors promptly,” Dr Ch’ng explained.
Warning Signs Parents Should Not Ignore
Type 2 diabetes can develop quietly, with some children showing few or no symptoms until the condition is detected through screening.
Dr Ch’ng advises parents to look out for:
- Persistent thirst
- Frequent urination
- Excessive hunger
- Unexplained tiredness
- Blurred vision
- Recurring skin infections
Another warning sign is acanthosis nigricans, which appears as dark, velvety patches around the neck, underarms or groin. These patches may indicate insulin resistance and are sometimes mistaken for dirt or poor hygiene.
Children who are overweight or obese and have additional risk factors should begin screening from age 10 or after puberty starts. Screening should be repeated if the risks persist.
“The window for intervention is narrower than in adults, so identifying the condition early gives children the best opportunity to control their blood sugar, reduce long-term complications and potentially achieve remission,” she said.
Building Healthier Habits Starts At Home
While the rise in type 2 diabetes among teenagers is concerning, Dr Ch’ng says parents should remember that the disease is largely preventable. Prevention also works best when the whole family is involved.
“A family-centred approach is essential. Healthy habits are much easier to sustain when everyone makes changes together, rather than singling out one child.”
Parents can start with simple but consistent changes, such as:
- Including more fruits, vegetables, whole grains and legumes in meals
- Cutting back on sugary drinks and ultra-processed foods
- Encouraging at least 60 minutes of physical activity daily
- Limiting recreational screen time
- Ensuring children get enough sleep
Shared meals and family activities can also help children develop healthier habits that last into adulthood.
Lifestyle Changes And Treatment Go Hand In Hand
For children diagnosed with type 2 diabetes, lifestyle changes remain the cornerstone of treatment. However, Dr Ch’ng encourages families not to lose hope, as advances in treatment and proper medical support can help children manage the condition and lead healthier, more active lives.
Oral medication such as metformin may be the first-line treatment for youth-onset type 2 diabetes. Newer options, including GLP-1 receptor agonists, are also available for selected young patients, alongside other approved medications.
These treatments are used together with healthy eating, regular physical activity and behavioural support to improve blood sugar control and reduce the risk of long-term complications.
“Lifestyle changes and medication are complementary, not competing strategies. Medication helps control the disease while families work towards sustainable changes in eating habits, physical activity and other healthy behaviours,” she added.
With appropriate treatment and continued family support, children with type 2 diabetes can better manage their condition, protect their long-term health and continue growing up with the opportunity to lead full, active lives.