Medical experts in Mysuru have raised an alarm over a steady increase in the number of children being diagnosed with type 1 diabetes, even as the precise reasons behind this trend remain unclear. The situation highlights a growing public health concern requiring greater awareness and early detection.
A Growing Patient Registry at Cheluvamba Hospital
At the Pediatric Diabetic Clinic in Cheluvamba Hospital, which operates under the Mysore Medical College and Research Institute (MMCRI), around 230 children aged between 2 and 18 years are currently registered and undergoing treatment. Each of these young patients requires insulin injections three times daily to manage their condition.
Dr. Nagendra, associate professor in the paediatrics department at MMCRI and in-charge of the clinic, expressed concern over the rising numbers. He revealed that 40 new children have been registered this year alone, compared to 30 cases in the previous year, clearly indicating an upward trajectory.
The Challenge of Late Detection and Severe Symptoms
A major hurdle in combating this disease is its often stealthy onset. Dr. Nagendra explained that early symptoms are notoriously difficult for parents to notice. Many families seek medical help only when the child exhibits significant problems like failure to gain weight or develops serious complications.
"In several cases, children are brought to the hospital in a critical condition and require ICU care," Dr. Nagendra stated. He described the common severe symptoms that finally lead to diagnosis: breathing difficulties, persistent vomiting, abdominal pain, and severe weight loss. It is often only after specific tests that dangerously high blood sugar levels are discovered.
National Context and Unknown Causes
Citing the ICMR 2022 report, Dr. Nagendra provided a national perspective. India is home to approximately 95,600 children below the age of 14 living with type 1 diabetes, with nearly 15,900 new cases being added every year across the country.
He clarified a crucial and puzzling aspect of the disease: its exact cause is still unknown. Contrary to common perception, most affected children do not have a family history of diabetes or any other identifiable risk factors. "Research is ongoing to understand the reasons behind the condition," the doctor added, emphasizing the need for more scientific inquiry.
Hope Through Management and Discipline
Despite the challenges, the medical outlook is not without hope. Dr. Nagendra stressed that with proper treatment, strict discipline, and regular monitoring, children with type 1 diabetes can lead completely normal and successful lives.
"Many of our patients have pursued engineering and higher education and are doing well," he said, offering encouragement to families dealing with the diagnosis. Dr. Pradeep N, head of the paediatrics department at MMCRI, noted that Cheluvamba Hospital functions as a tertiary referral centre for four districts, underscoring its key role in regional healthcare.
The rising numbers in Mysuru mirror a broader national pattern, calling for enhanced vigilance among parents and healthcare providers to spot early signs and ensure timely intervention for India's young population.
