WIREDGOV

The number of children developing Type 2 diabetes, normally only seen in adults, as a result of being overweight or obese should be a "wake up call" to the nation ahead of the Government's forthcoming childhood obesity strategy, warn councils.  Latest figures show that there are 533 children & young people, including 11 aged nine or under, in England & Wales with Type 2 diabetes.  Unlike Type 1 diabetes, Type 2 is largely preventable and is closely linked to lifestyle, such as unhealthy eating or lack of exercise.

To coincide with Diabetes Week, the Local Government Association, which represents more than 370 councils with responsibility for public health, says the number will continue to rise unless bold action is taken in the Government's childhood obesity strategy.  A survey of children under 17 in the UK found that 95% of those diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes were overweight and 83 % obese. 

The first cases of Type 2 diabetes in children were diagnosed in overweight girls of Asian ethnic origin in 2000 and first reported in white adolescents in 2002.

LGA:  Obesity crisis: 500 children suffering Type 2 diabetes is 'wake-up call' for the nation

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