Docs: Cases of Type 1 diabetes among kids under 14 yrs rising
Ranchi: Hospitals in the city are witnessing an increase in cases of Type 1 diabetes among children under the age of 14, with annual figures rising from single digits a decade ago to 15–20 cases per year in recent times.
Health experts attribute the rise to a combination of improved diagnosis, shifting dietary habits, and lifestyle-related factors.
Between Jan 2024 and May 2025, Sadar Hospital reported 12 new cases of Type 1 diabetes in children below 14. Similarly, at Rani Children Hospital, the cases steadily increased from 12 in 2020, 11 in 2021, to 15 in 2024, with 12 fresh cases already recorded this year.
Dr Prem Ranjan Kumar, paediatrician at Rani Children Hospital, said, "We've seen the numbers climb from just 4–5 cases a year a decade ago to nearly 20 now.
Most of these children are aged between 2 and 10." According to experts, Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune condition where the immune system mistakenly attacks insulin-producing beta cells in the pancreas.
Dr Kumar said, "Even without any family history, a child may develop this condition due to underlying genetic susceptibility."
Dr UP Sahu, paediatrician at Rims Ranchi, said, "This results in absolute insulin deficiency, making lifelong insulin therapy essential.
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Affected children must follow strict insulin routines, dietary monitoring, and blood sugar management for life." While improved awareness and screening have enhanced early detection, medical professionals warn of deeper concerns.
Dr Kumar said, "Dietary changes, especially increased consumption of processed and high-sugar foods, sedentary routines, and prolonged screen time are major contributors."
He also pointed to long-term steroid use in children with chronic kidney or neurological conditions as another medical trigger. Doctors stress the importance of early diagnosis to avoid life-threatening complications. "Children often present with symptoms like abdominal pain, vomiting, dehydration, or headaches, which are signs of diabetic ketoacidosis, a dangerous condition," said Dr Sahu.
Although Type 1 diabetes cannot be prevented, doctors agree that timely detection and disciplined management can significantly enhance a child's quality of life. Dr Sahu said, "Proper insulin storage, an active lifestyle, and diet regulation are critical. Working parents need to be especially vigilant about their children's eating habits, daily routines, and unusual symptoms."
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