Type 2 diabetes mellitus in children--an increasing health problem in Mexico

Area of Science:

• Pediatrics
• Endocrinology
• Metabolic Diseases

Background:

• Childhood type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM2) incidence is increasing globally.
• Overweight and obesity are primary risk factors for pediatric DM2.
• Insulin resistance is a key pathophysiological mechanism in DM2.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the characteristics of children diagnosed with type 2 diabetes mellitus.
• To evaluate insulin resistance using HOMA-IR and QUICKI in pediatric DM2 patients.
• To explore the relationship between anthropometric measurements, biochemical markers, and insulin sensitivity.

Main Methods:

• Clinical histories and anthropometric measurements were collected from 44 children with DM2.
• Biochemical analyses were performed, including glucose, glycosylated hemoglobin, insulin, and C-peptide levels.
• Insulin resistance was assessed using Homeostasis Model Assessment (HOMA-IR) and Quantitative Insulin Sensitivity Check Index (QUICKI).

Main Results:

• Most patients (89%) were overweight, with 76% presenting acanthosis nigricans.
• Hyperglycemia, elevated glycosylated hemoglobin, insulin, and C-peptide were observed.
• Elevated HOMA-IR and decreased QUICKI values indicated significant insulin resistance.
• Overweight in girls correlated with higher blood pressure and lipid levels.
• A significant correlation was found between time from diagnosis and HOMA-IR (p = 0.010).

Conclusions:

• Pediatric patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus frequently exhibit insulin resistance.
• Overweight and sedentary lifestyles are critical factors contributing to pediatric DM2.
• Preventive strategies targeting weight management and physical activity are crucial for combating childhood DM2.