Risk Factors for Development of Type 2 and Prediabetes in Children During the COVID-19 Pandemic.

BACKGROUND

During the COVID-19 pandemic, there was a rise in the incidence of type 2 diabetes (T2D) and prediabetes in children and teenagers. We investigated whether new risk factors for diabetes in children emerged during the pandemic period.

METHODS

Using health records of a large, integrated health system, we evaluated the incidence of new-onset T2D and prediabetes in patients aged 0-19 years from 2020 to 2023. We utilised descriptive statistics, chi-square and multivariable logistic regressions to predict the risk of T2D and prediabetes.

RESULTS

Compared to children with normal weight, children with obesity (p < 0.0001) and those overweight (p < 0.0001) were more likely to develop prediabetes, and children with obesity were more likely to develop T2D (p < 0.0001). Children aged 12-19 were more likely to develop prediabetes (p < 0.0001) and T2D (p < 0.0001) compared to younger children. Publicly insured children were more likely to develop T2D (p = 0.003). Black and Asian children were at higher risk than White individuals of developing both prediabetes (p < 0.0001) and T2D (p = 0.019 and p = 0.02, respectively). COVID-19 infection was not a meaningful risk factor for prediabetes or T2D.

CONCLUSION

Risk factors for prediabetes and T2D in children remained the same during the pandemic as prior: adolescents, overweight/obese patients, publicly insured individuals and non-White individuals.