Childhood diabetes crisis stalks Europe, more screening urged

The International Diabetes Federation (IDF) predicts a 13% rise in diabetes prevalence in Europe by 2045, with 61 million affected. Europe has the highest incidence of Type 1 diabetes (T1D) in children and adolescents, and the second highest per-person diabetes cost globally, spending €175 billion in 2021.

In terms of global regions, Europe now reports the highest number of children and adolescents with T1D, with approximately 295,000 cases.

Grace O’Sullivan, MEP (Greens-EFA), said: “Ireland in particular, has an issue with diabetes in children. We are in the top 25% of diabetes incidence worldwide and the numbers are going in the wrong direction.”

“Early screening efforts need to be stepped up, as now most diagnoses are made on an ad hoc basis and for very young children the signs can be difficult to spot.” (...)