New research shows that COVID-19 may significantly increase the risk of type 2 diabetes in teens and adolescents. A study from Case Western Reserve University found that young people who had COVID were over 50% more likely to be diagnosed with type 2 diabetes within six months compared to those with other respiratory infections.
Here’s why this matters: type 2 diabetes is a lifelong condition that can lead to serious health issues. Researchers studied over 600,000 health records from people aged 10-19 who had COVID or other infections like flu or pneumonia between 2020 and 2022. Surprisingly, even those with mild COVID (not needing hospitalization) were at a higher risk of developing diabetes, and that risk was even greater among those who had severe COVID and required hospitalization.
Though scientists don’t yet fully understand why COVID might lead to diabetes, these findings raise awareness about potential long-term effects of the virus on young people’s health. The researchers couldn’t confirm if COVID-19 vaccination impacts diabetes risk, which highlights the need for further study.
With predictions that type 2 diabetes among people under 20 could skyrocket by 2060, this research is a strong reminder to take COVID seriously and consider preventive health measures.
