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Pediatrics group issues guidelines for diabetes

The American Academy of Pediatrics has issued the first-ever guidelines for children between the ages of 8 and 10 with type 2 diabetes. A CBS News story says the organization took that step partially in response to the growing epidemic of childhood obesity, which puts children at greater risk of the condition.

Type 2 diabetes is characterized by an inability to produce or properly use insulin — a hormone needed to convert food into energy. It’s long been associated with an increased risk of death, especially from cardiovascular disease. Kidney disease is also common in people with the condition.

Some treatments for type 2 diabetes have also been identified as potential health threats. For example, studies have linked the type 2 diabetes medications Januvia and Byetta to pancreatitis and pancreatic cancer.

Byetta has also been linked to an increased risk of thyroid cancer.

The organization recommends giving insulin shots almost immediately in children between the ages of 10 and 18 who are diagnosed with markedly high glucose levels.

It also recommends that children with type 2 diabetes get at least 60 minutes of exercise a day. And “screen time” not directly related to school — including video games, television and computer usage — should be less than two hours a day.

You should consult with a doctor if you have any ongoing symptoms or health concerns, and before making any changes in medication. You should also consult with a Lopez McHugh attorney if you or a loved one was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer after taking Januvia or Byetta.

See the story here:

https://www.cbsnews.com/8301-204_162-57566206/first-ever-health-guidelines-issued-for-diabetic-kids/