New Diabetes Treatments Show Promise for Young Patients

November marks Diabetes Action Month, highlighting an alarming trend: an increasing number of young people are being diagnosed with type 2 diabetes. According to Diabetes NZ, this surge could lead to a significant health crisis if not addressed promptly.

Dr. Craig Jefferies, a paediatric endocrinologist at Auckland’s Starship Children’s Hospital, shared insights on a recent trial during an interview with RNZ’s Morning Report. He indicated that new weight loss and diabetes medications show “very, very promising” results. Although these treatments are not currently funded by the government, Dr. Jefferies emphasized their potential to be “life-changing” for young patients.

“The most recent trial indicates they are very effective with a low side-effect profile. While they are expensive, we are only dealing with a small number of youth with type 2 diabetes, so the overall cost to Pharmac would not be substantial,” Dr. Jefferies explained. He noted that type 2 diabetes can be particularly aggressive in children and teenagers, leading to severe complications much earlier compared to adults.

Dr. Jefferies highlighted the increased risk of serious health issues such as blindness, amputations, kidney failure, and heart disease in younger populations. “If left undiagnosed and unsupported, the outcomes can be devastating,” he warned.

Research indicates that young individuals are more susceptible to type 2 diabetes if they belong to Māori, Pasifika, or Asian descent backgrounds, or if their mothers had diabetes during pregnancy. “For young people, type 2 diabetes is not just a lifestyle disease; it is influenced by complex genetic, social, and environmental factors beyond their control,” Dr. Jefferies noted, while acknowledging that weight is also a contributing factor.

Historically, type 2 diabetes was rare among young people, which meant it was often overlooked by general practitioners. Today, however, symptoms such as excessive thirst, frequent urination, extreme fatigue, and unexplained weight loss must lead to diabetes being considered in diagnoses. Early detection is essential to prevent severe complications.

Heather Verry, chief executive of Diabetes NZ, pointed out that although a majority of the estimated 6,000 diabetes cases in individuals under 25 are type 1, the rise in type 2 cases serves as a critical warning for policymakers. “We cannot afford to wait until the numbers become overwhelming. The time to act is now to implement prevention, education, and support for these valued members of our community,” Verry stated.

Currently, there are no tailored programmes or resources specifically for young people living with type 2 diabetes. Verry emphasized the need for age-appropriate, practical education that is non-judgmental and addresses mental health, thereby reducing stigma. “These children deserve the chance to thrive,” she concluded.

With diabetes rates climbing among the youth, immediate action is essential to develop comprehensive strategies that can effectively manage and prevent this condition, ensuring a healthier future for the next generation.