High Blood Sugar in Teenagers with Diabetes Indicates Increased Risk of Neuropathy in Adulthood
Research reveals that poor blood sugar control during adolescence in children with type 1 diabetes increases the risk of developing neuropathy in adulthood. Supporting teens in managing their blood glucose effectively can help prevent nerve damage later in life.
Recent research led by the University of Michigan highlights a significant long-term health concern for young individuals with type 1 diabetes: poor blood sugar control during adolescence may elevate their risk of developing nerve damage, known as neuropathy, later in life. The study, which tracked nearly 2,000 participants over more than 30 years, found that children diagnosed with type 1 diabetes before age six often struggle to maintain optimal blood glucose levels during their teenage years. Those with higher HbA1c levels—a marker of average blood sugar—during adolescence were more likely to face neuropathy as adults.
Neuropathy can manifest as pain, numbness, tingling, and loss of sensation in limbs, affecting up to half of the 40 million Americans living with diabetes. The study revealed that adolescents with an average HbA1c of 8.9% or higher showed increased risks of nerve damage in later years.
The findings emphasize the importance of supporting teenagers in managing their blood sugar effectively. Dr. Eva Feldman, a senior author of the study, stressed that ensuring good glycemic control during these formative years is crucial in preventing future complications. The research also observed that participants with rising HbA1c levels from childhood to adolescence not only maintained higher blood sugar levels but also faced a greater likelihood of neuropathy in adulthood.
Mechanistically, chronic hyperglycemia impairs cell metabolism, insulin signaling, and glucose regulation, which could explain the long-term damage. Experts note that besides blood sugar control, vascular factors also influence neuropathy development, underscoring the need for comprehensive management strategies for young people with diabetes.
This study underscores the critical need for targeted interventions and supportive care to help young individuals with diabetes achieve stable blood sugar levels, ultimately reducing their risk of serious nerve-related complications later in life.
Source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-10-diabetic-teens-high-blood-sugar.html
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