Youth with diabetes
Did you know that November is National Diabetes Awareness Month? This year’s focus is taking care of youth who have diabetes. Diabetes is one of the most common chronic conditions in school-aged youth in the United States, affecting about 193,000 youth under age 20. Additionally, the Journal of Pediatrics estimates the prevalence of prediabetes among adolescents with obesity is approximately 30%. Regardless of their age, youth who have diabetes may need support with their diabetes care from their caregivers and healthcare team. According to the National Institute of Health (NIH), research has shown that diabetes is best managed by shared responsibility between parents and adolescents with diabetes. As a health care provider, you play an important role in guiding families toward this shared responsibility. Check out NIH’s National Diabetes Month toolkit for additional resources and information on how you can help support your patients with diabetes.
Diabetes self-management and medical nutrition therapy are covered benefits for SCFHP members.