Which type of diabetes is most commonly diagnosed during childhood?

Type 1 diabetes mellitus is the most commonly diagnosed form of diabetes in childhood. This autoimmune condition typically arises when the immune system mistakenly attacks and destroys the insulin-producing beta cells in the pancreas. As a result, individuals with Type 1 diabetes have little to no insulin, leading to an inability to properly regulate blood glucose levels.

The onset of Type 1 diabetes often occurs in childhood or adolescence, with symptoms frequently manifesting suddenly. Children may present with signs such as frequent urination, excessive thirst, weight loss, and fatigue. Given this context, it is clear why Type 1 diabetes is recognized as the predominant type of diabetes diagnosed in younger populations.

Other types, such as Type 2 diabetes, are more commonly associated with adulthood and lifestyle factors, while gestational diabetes occurs during pregnancy and Maturity-onset diabetes of the young typically arises due to genetic factors and has a different clinical presentation than what is usually seen in children.