Management of Type 2 Diabetes in Youth (Part 2)

Type 2 diabetes is increasing at an alarming rate in minority youth in the United States. Early diagnosis is important so that a treatment plan including diabetes self-management education, medical nutrition therapy, exercise, and behavioral modification can be developed to optimize blood glucose level. Prevention and treatment of hypertension and dyslipidemia may decrease cardiovascular disease later in life. Management of type 2 diabetes requires a team approach that is patient and family centered with the health care provider, a registered dietitian, an exercise physiologist, a social worker, and a psychologist available.