The rate of type 2 diabetes in under-40s has risen by 23% new analysis finds.
Diabetes UK found that the number of type 2 diabetes cases in under-40s had risen by 23% in the last five years, increasing at a faster rate than in people over-40.
‘This trend of rapidly increasing early-onset type 2 diabetes is incredibly troubling. It marks a significant shift from what we’ve seen historically and should be taken as a serious warning to policymakers and our NHS’ said Chief Executive at Diabetes UK, Chris Askew OBE.
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Analysis warned that the number of 18–39-year old’s living with the condition could hit 200,000 by 2027.
Mr.Askew said, ‘this analysis confirms an incredibly troubling growing trend, underlining how serious health conditions related to obesity are becoming more and more prevalent in a younger demographic.’
According to Diabetes UK more than half of all cases of type 2 diabetes could be prevented or delayed by increasing physical activity and having a healthier diet.
A type 2 diagnosis at a younger age can lead to more complications such as kidney or heart disease. However, research found that two-thirds of 18–39-year old’s do not know the symptoms of type 2 diabetes or how to find out if they are at risk.
‘If you’re under 40, you’re not immune to type 2 diabetes. It is vital that you check your risk now and that individuals, no matter what their age or background, are given the opportunity to access support to reduce their risk of type 2 diabetes’ urged Mr. Askew.
Diabetes UK are encouraging people under 40 to check their risk of the disease using the free toolkit found on their website.