Rising Incidence of Diabetes Among Children a Growing Concern: Experts
Hyderabad, Sept 6 (TNT): The rising incidence of diabetes and other endocrine and metabolic disorders among children and adolescents is a growing concern, with experts stressing the need for early diagnosis, timely treatment and long-term monitoring.
The issue was discussed at PAEDS 2026, a national conference on paediatric endocrinology organised by KIMS Cuddles, Secunderabad, at KIMS Hospitals here on Sunday.
Paediatricians, endocrinologists and specialists from across the country participated in discussions on childhood diabetes, growth and puberty disorders, obesity, thyroid disorders, bone health and other hormonal conditions.
Dr Babu S. Madarkar, Clinical Director and Chief Neonatologist, KIMS Cuddles, said the conference aimed to strengthen doctors’ knowledge and clinical skills in the early identification, management and follow-up of hormonal and metabolic disorders among children and adolescents.
“Paediatric endocrine disorders can have a significant impact on a child’s growth, development and long-term health. Early recognition and timely intervention are therefore extremely important,” he said.
The conference featured expert lectures, scientific sessions and practical workshops covering congenital hypothyroidism, hypoglycaemia, rickets, bow legs, childhood hypertension, Differences of Sex Development (DSD), precocious and delayed puberty, short stature and growth hormone therapy.
Dr Kishore Baske, Paediatric Endocrinologist, said a dedicated session on childhood diabetes examined changing treatment approaches for both Type-1 and Type-2 diabetes.
He said changing dietary habits and increasingly sedentary lifestyles were contributing to a rise in lifestyle-related disorders among children and adolescents.
Experts discussed treatment options for Type-2 diabetes beyond metformin, including the role of GLP-1 analogues, as well as newer approaches to Type-1 diabetes management.
“Along with diabetes, increasing childhood obesity is another major concern. Genetic factors, polyendocrine and metabolic disorders and conditions such as metabolic ovarian syndromes also require greater attention in paediatric endocrine practice,” Dr Baske said.
The conference also examined the emerging role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in paediatric endocrinology, including its potential applications in healthcare, limitations and the need for responsible use in clinical decision-making.
Hands-on workshops formed an important part of PAEDS 2026, with participants receiving training in growth-chart interpretation, use of growth hormone pens and vials, bone-age assessment and DEXA scans. Training was also provided on continuous glucose monitoring systems, insulin pumps and pens, carbohydrate counting and insulin administration.
Experts stressed the need for specialised paediatric endocrinology services and a comprehensive approach to children with hormonal and metabolic disorders, involving early diagnosis, appropriate treatment, long-term follow-up, family counselling, nutritional support and multidisciplinary care.
Doctors said timely identification and treatment of endocrine disorders could help prevent or reduce complications later in life.
The conference provided a platform for medical professionals to update themselves on evolving diagnostic and treatment approaches for complex hormonal and metabolic conditions affecting children and adolescents.
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