Journal of Pediatric Perspectives

Journal of Pediatric Perspectives

Investigating The Relationship between Body Mass Index and Type 2 Diabetes in Adolescents: A Narrative Review

Document Type : review article

Authors
Jalal Nourmohammadi 1
Mojtaba Lotfi 2
Mehrnaz Nazari Rad 2
Fereshteh Ghaljaei 3
1 PhD Student of Nursing, Student Research Committee, Faculty of Nursing and Midwifery, Zahedan University of Medical Sciences, Zahedan, Iran.
2 Clinical Research Development Unit of Akbar Hospital , Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran.
3 Professor of Nursing ,Department of Pediatric Nursing, School of Nursing and Midwifery, Community Nursing Research Center, Zahedan University of Medical Sciences, Zahedan, Iran.
10.22038/jpp.2025.88492.5559
Abstract
In recent years, there has been a significant increase in obesity rates among children and adolescents, leading to a corresponding rise in type 2 diabetes cases within this age group. Body mass index (BMI) is a key measure for assessing obesity and is closely linked to various metabolic disorders, including diabetes. This narrative review examines the relationship between BMI and the onset of type 2 diabetes in young individuals. Evidence shows that high BMI levels, particularly those indicating obesity or severe obesity, are significant and independent risk factors for developing type 2 diabetes in pediatric populations. Factors such as insulin resistance, genetic predisposition, and lifestyle behaviors also contribute to this association. These findings emphasize the critical need for preventive strategies, early detection, and effective weight management among children and adolescents.
Keywords
Adolescents
Body mass index
Type 2 diabetes
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Journal of Pediatric Perspectives
Volume 13, Issue 6
June 2025
Pages 19524-19531