New figures from Diabetes UK show a shocking rise in both children and young adults with type 2 diabetes.

The Obesity Health Alliance say the rise in figures is “hugely concerning.” The latest National Diabetes Audit 2016-17 showed a total of 6,836 children and young adults were being treated for type 2 diabetes.

This number is ten times higher than first anticipated and Diabetes UK are concerned that the number could rise over the coming years.

Bridget Turner, director of policy and campaigns at Diabetes UK, said: “Type 2 diabetes can be devastating for children and young people.”

Diabetes as a risk factor for pancreatic cancer

There are a number of previous reports suggesting that diabetics have a higher chance of developing pancreatic cancer.

Type 2 diabetes is a changeable risk of pancreatic cancer. Reducing your body weight can help improve your body’s ability to use insulin effectively. This can help reduce your chance of having pancreatic cancer as well as type 2 diabetes, strokes and coronary heart disease.

Whilst the rise in type 2 diabetes in children is concerning, the risk of pancreatic cancer increases with age, with the average age at diagnosis being 72.

What may help control diabetes?

It is important to get advice relevant to your own circumstances as there are different types of diabetes. You may be referred to a Diabetes Specialist Nurse who will help you manage your diabetes, give help and advice on insulin injections and managing your diet.

If you have diabetes, it is important that your blood sugars are controlled. You can help maintain your blood sugar levels as close to normal as possible by maintaining a good balance between nourishing healthy diet, nutritional supplements, medications and physical activity.

However, it is important that you get the balance between healthy eating and maintaining your weight. If you are struggling to maintain your weight, you should not restrict your diet further to try and reduce your blood sugar levels. Ask your doctor, dietitian or diabetes nurse for advice.

For more information of diabetes you can visit Diabetes UK.

To learn more about diabetes as a risk factor- click here