Reassessing type 2 diabetes in adolescents and its management strategies based on insulin resistance

Abstract

With changes in lifestyle behaviors, including dietary structure and habits, the prevalence of Youth-onset Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (YODM) has increased 2 to 3 times compared to 30 years ago. YODM patients experience complications earlier, progress faster, and exhibit more severe symptoms. However, limited and inconclusive direct evidence, coupled with poor patient compliance, poses challenges in the clinical management of YODM. Apart from the continuous decline in pancreatic β-cell function and quantity, tissue-specific insulin resistance (IR) is also a typical characteristic of YODM. The main mechanisms of IR in YODM involve different aspects such as obesity, dietary imbalance, abnormal substance metabolism, chronic inflammation, oxidative stress, and hormonal fluctuations during adolescence. For the comprehensive management of YODM, besides achieving good control of blood glucose levels, it may be necessary to apply the most appropriate methods considering the uniqueness of the patient population and the specifics of the disease. Early identification and detection of the disease are crucial. Precise screening of patients with well-functioning pancreatic insulin β-cells, primarily characterized by IR and obesity, represents the population most likely to achieve diabetes remission or reversal through lifestyle modifications, medications, or even surgical interventions. Additionally, considering potential emotional disorders or the impact of adolescent hormones in these patients, health education for patients and caregivers is essential to make them aware of the long-term benefits of well-controlled blood glucose. In conclusion, adopting comprehensive management measures to achieve diabetes remission or reversal is the ideal goal. Controlling high blood glucose, obesity, and other risk factors related to diabetes complications is the next priority to delay the occurrence and progression of complications. A comprehensive perspective on IR provides insights and references for identifying YODM and its management strategies.

Keywords: diabetes remission; insulin resistance; management strategies; mechanisms; obesity; youth-onset diabetes mellitus.

Figure 1

Key role of IR in the occurrence and development of YODM.

Figure 2

Comprehensive management strategies for YODM from the perspective of IR.