Exploring the Prevalence of Undiagnosed Prediabetes, Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus, and Risk Factors in Adolescents: A Systematic Review

Problem: The prevalence of prediabetes and type 2 diabetes (T2D) is increasing in adolescents worldwide. Most studies have focused on the clinical features, treatment, and complications for adolescents and so the need to generate insight into the risk factors and prevalence of undiagnosed prediabetes and T2D in adolescents across the globe remains. 

Eligibility criteria: Relevant articles that were published from 2007 up to and including January 2017 were identified through electronic searches of CINAHL, Cochrane, Medline, PsycInfo, PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Sociological Abstracts (Proquest). Four independent researchers examined the articles for eligibility. 

Sample: Sixteen studies were included that investigated the risk and prevalence of undiagnosed prediabetes and T2D in adolescents aged 12–19. 

Results: The most commonly measured risk factors included obesity/overweight, family history, and ethnicity. Other studies measured risk factors associated with insulin resistance, including hypertension, acanthosis nigricans, and dyslipidemia. Prevalence of undiagnosed prediabetes and T2D varied among regions globally with rates ranging from 3.3 to 14.3% and 0.1 to 2.2%, respectively. 

Conclusions: Undiagnosed prediabetes and T2D and the associated risk factors are prevalent in many regions in countries worldwide, significantly impacting adolescents and their families.

Implications: Future research is required to inform interventions aimed at preventative measures for early screening and detection of prediabetes and T2D in adolescents, as well as the development of multi-disciplinary teams that include pediatric nurses and the specialized care they provide.