Researchers in the U.K. warn that there has been a sharp increase in type 2 diabetes in the country with a higher prevalence seen among people below 40.
The researchers studied type 2 diabetes cases diagnosed between 1991 and 2010. "We have known for some time that the incidence of new cases and prevalence of the total number of people of type 2 diabetes has been increasing in the UK," said lead author and Professor Craig Currie from Cardiff University's School of Medicine.
"We also know that there has been an increase in the prevalence of type 2 diabetes in children and adolescents. This is thought to be dependent on many factors such as obesity, diet and family history amongst many other factors," he added.
The research found that type 2 diabetes was found to be very common among young adults in the last 20 years. This is worrying as early onset of the diabetes places a heavy burden on healthcare and also means a poorer quality of life for the patient.
"Early onset of type 2 diabetes could result in longer disease duration and lead to an increased risk of developing health complications," Currie said.
"An earlier age of onset may also ultimately lead to premature death," he said.
According to the editor of Diabetes, Obesity and Metabolism, in which the study is published, research findings are important. He said that it highlights the continuing rise of type 2 diabetes, which poses a challenge for the country. "The results are like to mirror similar trends in other European countries," he said.
