Childhood diabetes

Abstract

There are 31 500 children in the UK with diabetes, the second-most-common chronic disease in childhood, after asthma. Most have type 1 diabetes, those remaining have type 2 diabetes, maturity onset diabetes of the young, or cystic-fibrosis-related diabetes. About 25% of newly diagnosed children present with diabetic ketoacidosis. The NHS spends about £1 000 000 per hour on diabetes and GPs have a central role in early diagnosis, prevention of complications, prompt referral and coordination of care. Engagement with good advice and support is essential for young people with diabetes and their families. This article gives an overview of the management of childhood diabetes.