184. Twice as many kids have prediabetes than 20 years ago
Dr. David Geier is an orthopedic surgeon and sports medicine specialist in Charleston, South Carolina and Charlotte, North Carolina. He helps athletes and active people feel and perform their best, regardless of age, injuries and medical history. He has been featured in major media publications and shows over 2,500 times throughout his career.
Over the last two decades, prediabetes among children in this country has more than doubled, according to a new study published in the journal JAMA Pediatrics. Researchers at Mount Sinai reviewed data from the CDC. From 1999 to 2018, the rate of prediabetes in adolescents jumped from around 11 percent to over 28 percent. The higher rates of prediabetes were seen across demographic groups, regardless of income, ethnicity and education. Prediabetes involves higher than normal and recommended blood sugar levels. It’s worrisome, especially among children, as it increases the risk for later type 2 diabetes, heart disease and stroke. To prevent this condition, parents should encourage their children to follow a healthier lifestyle, including eating a healthy diet, getting regular exercise, decreasing screen time, and getting more sleep.
Through the stories of a dozen athletes whose injuries and recovery advanced the field (including Joan Benoit, Michael Jordan, Brandi Chastain, and Tommy John), Dr. Geier explains how sports medicine makes sports safer for the pros, amateurs, student-athletes, and weekend warriors alike.
