BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVE: The global increase in childhood obesity has in some countries been followed by an increase in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM); however, the prevalence of T2DM among Danish children and adolescents is currently unknown. The aims of this cross-sectional study were to determine the prevalence of T2DM in children and adolescents in Denmark together with status on treatment, metabolic control, and late diabetic complications.

METHODS: Individuals were identified in the Danish Registry for Diabetes in Children and Adolescents (DanDiabKids), and clinical information regarding these was obtained from the respective pediatric departments.

RESULTS: In total, seven young individuals (three boys) with T2DM were identified, according to the American Diabetes Association (ADA)/International Society of Pediatric and Adolecent Diabetes (ISPAD) guidelines, leading to a prevalence of T2DM at 0.6/100 000 inhabitants in Denmark. Only three of the patients had hyperglycemic symptoms at diagnosis. One boy was overweight and six were obese (two boys). Currently, no patients fulfill the treatment target of glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c) <7.0% (53 mmol/mol) according to the guidelines for treatment of diabetes.

CONCLUSIONS: In 2014, there is no increasing prevalence of T2DM in children and adolescents in Denmark. Nevertheless, the current treatment regimen is not satisfying, as none of the patients truly fulfill the treatment target.