Can a child get diabetes if both parents are diabetic?

Question

Hello doctor,

I have had type 1 diabetes since I was 18, and now I am 31. Can I also get type 2 diabetes? I am worried about my newborn daughter - can she get it too? Is this genetic? My wife is mildly diabetic. I am freaking out about our baby's future health. What precautions should we take? Should we get her tested? Also, I have heard type 1 can cause other health problems- what should I watch out for? I am scared of complications. How often should I check my blood sugar? Are there any new treatments for type 1? I want to be around for my daughter. Any advice on managing diabetes as a new parent? I am feeling overwhelmed with all this.

Please help.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I understand your concern.

Someone with type 1 can develop features of type 2, such as insulin resistance. This is referred to as double diabetes. A healthy lifestyle, managing your weight, and keeping your blood sugars under control can reduce the risk of insulin resistance.

Type 1 diabetes has a genetic component, but it is not as strongly inherited as type 2 diabetes.

If only one parent has type 1 diabetes, the risk to the child is about 1 to 4 percent. The risk of developing type 2 diabetes can be influenced by lifestyle factors, diet, exercise, and weight.

Routine screening for diabetes in your newborn is not necessary unless she develops symptoms like excessive thirst, frequent urination, or unexplained weight loss. Ensure-

A healthy lifestyle for her.
A balanced diet.
Regular physical activity.
Maintaining a healthy weight.

If blood sugars are not well managed, then-

Increased risk of heart disease and stroke.
Damage to the kidneys over time.
Increased risk of blindness.
Pain, numbness, or other nerve-related issues.
Poor circulation and nerve damage can increase the risk of foot infections.

Regular blood sugar monitoring as recommended by your doctor before meals, after meals, and at bedtime. Continuous glucose monitoring includes:

Insulin pumps.
Hybrid closed-loop systems.

A physical examination by a doctor in a hospital is a must. Get well soon.

I hope this helps.

Kindly follow up if you have more concerns.

Thank you.