Juvenile diabetes, or type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM), is an autoimmune condition where the pancreas does not produce any insulin. Unlike type 2 diabetes, T1DM is not associated with lifestyle factors and often appears in children and adolescents. In India, the prevalence of T1DM is increasing in children, yet awareness and resources are limited.

Increasing burden in India

India has the highest number of children and teenagers living globally with T1DM. According to the International Diabetes Federation (IDF) Diabetes Atlas 2021, about 1.2 million people are affected around 0–19 years of age worldwide, a significant part in India. Studies indicate high proliferation in urban areas compared to rural areas. For example, in Haryana, Haryana, the circulation in urban areas is 26.6 per 100,000 in rural settings 4.27 per 100,000.

Aarav Mehta, 16, Mumbai students
“Living with type 1 diabetes is not about perfect every day – it’s about getting ready. I take my insulin kit as I take my phone – always with me, always charge. It’s part of life now.”

Symptoms

It is important to detect initial detection. Common symptoms include:

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A study at the Bij Medical College, Ahmedabad found that Polyuria and Polydipsia were present in 81.4% of Pediatrics T1DM cases.

Dr. Sameer Malhotra, Advisor Diabetologist
“The initial diagnosis of type 1 diabetes can be a life-guard. Parents should never ignore signs such as unexplained weight loss or excessive thirst. With timely interference, children can grow with proper insulin therapy and a supportive care system.”

Management and treatment

The management of T1DM requires a comprehensive approach:

• Insulin Therapy: Many daily injections or insulin pumps
• Monitoring of blood sugar: regular checking to maintain optimal levels
• Diet Management: Balanced food with controlled carbohydrate intake
• Physical activity: Regular exercise to improve insulin sensitivity

The study in Ahmedabad highlighted that Basel-Balas Insulin Regimeen gained better glycemic control with less hypoglycemic phenomena than Split-Mix Regimeen.

Dr. Renu Khanna, Pediatrics Endocrinologist “Type 1 diabetes is not a lifestyle disease in children – it is an autoimmune condition that demands lifetime commitment. With correct support, access to education and insulin, these children can live a complete, active life like any other child.”

Challenges in India

Despite medical progress, many challenges remain:

• Lack of awareness: Many people are unaware that children can develop diabetes.
• Limited access to care: Especially in rural areas, insulin access, monitoring equipment, and trained health professionals are insufficient.
• Financial obstacles: The cost of lifelong insulin therapy and surveillance can be prohibitive for many families.
• Social effects: Children may face stigma, which can cause emotional and psychological stress.

The President of the Research Society for the Studies of Diabetes in India (RSSDI), Dr. Bridge Makkar said in a research report, “With an estimated 8.6 lakh T1D patients in India, we cannot ignore the immediate needs of children living with this situation.

There is a need to address teenage diabetes in India:

• Promotional awareness campaign: Educating the public about T1DM symptoms and management.
• Strengthening healthcare infrastructure: Ensuring availability of insulin and monitoring equipment across the country.
• Training Health professionals: Special training for early diagnosis and management of pediatric diabetes.
• Policy Implementation: Integration of T1DM Care in National Health Programs to provide structured assistance

By prioritizing these stages, India can improve results for children with T1DM, ensure that they can lead to healthy and life to complete.

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Note: This article is for informative purposes and is not an alternative to professional medical advice. Always consult a healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment.