Juvenile diabetes is actually now referred to as Type 1 Diabetes. Type 1 diabetes is the leading cause of diabetes in children of every age, but almost all cases in children less than 10 years old. Type 1 diabetes also occurs in adults, but children still account for the majority of cases. Because of the diseases prevalence in children, it was traditionally referred to with the "Juvenile" moniker. Click here for an overview of Type 1 diabetes.

Special Issues Raised When Children Have Diabetes:

Children with diabetes present special issues, because they are still maturing and diabetes care needs focus. Activities such as birthday parties, sleepovers, school 504 plans and playing sports, require special planning. Blood glucose levels need to be monitored, insulin and medication needs to be taken and appropriate diets need to be followed. All of this can cause upset feelings in children and teens.

Parents should assemble a team of advisors to help them with the care, including their physician, dietician, diabetes educators, teachers, etc. Parents also need to be vigilant for mental health issues, insulin dosage skipping and eating disorders. As children get older, alcohol, tobacco and drug use should be avoided.

Make sure you get a jump start on learning how to work within the juvenile diabetes diet. Transitioning a child to independence is important. Children need to learn how to care and treat for themselves as they get older.

The National Diabetes Education Program (NDEP) provides excellent materials and resources concerning education and treatment of children with diabetes. Please take a look at our Cool Links page for links to NDEP and other resources.

Juvenile Diabetes Vaccine

The latest buzz is from a new drug that may be able to function as a diabetes vaccine for high risk children. If your child was recently diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes or is a high risk candidate, you must read this article on a possible Diabetes Vaccine.

The Bravest Girl In School

This book has been designed to help young children with diabetes to appreciate the importance of taking their insulin injections and being aware of what they eat. Click here to learn more about this great book!

Ezdiabetes.com - Diabetes Made Easy!

ezdiabetes.com is a web site for diabetes - made easy! Their products were specifically designed to make the transition, both emotionally and physically, easier for children who are newly diagnosed with diabetes.