On the occasion of World Diabetes Day, Dr. César Herrera Molina, pediatrician and expert in pediatric endocrinology at Hospiten Roca, stresses the importance of early detection of childhood diabetes as the most effective tool for improving quality of life and avoiding serious complications. The specialist also stresses the role played by health education, medical technology and psychological support in controlling the disease.
Childhood diabetes, especially type 1, which is of autoimmune origin, destroys the cells of the pancreas responsible for producing insulin. Its incidence is on the rise and requires early and coordinated attention. Dr. Herrera reminds us that family training, the role of the school nurse and technological advances, such as continuous glucose sensors and insulin pumps, are decisive factors in improving the daily control of diabetes and promoting the autonomy of children who suffer from it.
Unlike type 2 diabetes, more common in adults and related to obesity and unhealthy lifestyle habits, type 1 diabetes can appear at any pediatric age, from infants to adolescents.
The pediatrician points out that the initial symptoms (intense thirst, frequent urination, increased appetite and unexplained weight loss) should alert parents and educators, since an early diagnosis avoids serious complications such as diabetic ketoacidosis. "Today we know that type 1 diabetes does not start the day symptoms appear. There are presymptomatic stages that can be detected with specific tests, allowing close monitoring and, in some cases, access to immunomodulatory treatments that delay the progression of the disease," he explains.
In the therapeutic field, technology has brought about a real revolution. "Continuous glucose sensors and insulin pumps have transformed the control of the disease, significantly improving quality of life," adds the specialist. Many of these devices already work in closed-loop systems, automatically adjusting basal insulin according to the patient's glucose levels.
School nursing and education, key to child control
The doctor also stresses the importance of school nursing as an essential support in the educational environment: "Schools should have nurses trained in diabetes management. Although technology allows parents to monitor blood glucose levels remotely, the figure of trained personnel in the school center is key to guaranteeing safety and autonomy".
Likewise, the specialist stresses that treatment should be accompanied by a process of progressive autonomy for the child, allowing him to gradually assume the management of his disease, adapted to his age and always with the support of his family and the healthcare team.
Psychological support and healthy habits, pillars of wellbeing
Emotional health is another fundamental pillar. "Children with diabetes make constant decisions about their treatment. The emotional state directly influences glycemic control, so psychological support and empathy from the healthcare team are as important as medication," reminds Dr. Herrera.
In terms of prevention, the pediatrician stresses the need to promote healthy habits from childhood to reduce the cases of type 2 diabetes: a balanced diet and regular physical activity are key tools to prevent both obesity and metabolic disorders.
Finally, Dr. Herrera sends a message of recognition to all the families who live with this disease: "I would like to congratulate the children and families who face diabetes every day with effort and commitment. They have the support of a health system that advances and research that does not stop. The future will bring new tools that will make it easier to live with the disease".
This article is an English translation generated with Al from the original Spanish content. While we review content for clarity, the information is provided for general informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for diagnosis or treatment