Warning over rise in younger diabetes cases

Doctors at Cardiff University say the findings mean health problems due to complications from the illness are being stored up for the future.

A team from its medical school found a significant increase in overall cases of the condition in the UK but uncovered a marked increase among people aged 40 and under.

In 1991-95, only 5.9 per cent of patients at diagnosis were 40 or under but this rose to 12.4 per cent in 2006-10.

Prof Craig Currie, who led the work, said the growth was due to a number of factors, including obesity, diet and family history.

Analysis of cases diagnosed over 20 years found an overall decrease in the average age of diagnosis and the condition could now be considered “common” among relatively young people.

“Early onset of Type 2 diabetes could result in longer disease duration and lead to an increased risk of developing health complications,” he said.

“This will undoubtedly place an increasing burden on healthcare resources and result in poorer quality of life. An earlier age of onset may also ultimately lead to premature death.”