London: England has reported increasing cases of type 2 diabetes in women in their 20s, prompting concerns about early health risks and prevention strategies.
The experts at Imperial College London have analysed data from the National Health Service (NHS) covering the period from 2011 to 2024. Findings indicate a sharp rise in diagnoses among younger adults, with the most notable increase seen in women aged 20 to 29.
The analysis shows that while older adults still account for the majority of new cases, rates in this group have slightly declined. In contrast, cases among people under 40 have grown rapidly. Around 12,000 individuals under the age of 30 are now living with type 2 diabetes in England.
Rising obesity levels have been identified as a key contributing factor. Body mass index at the time of diagnosis has increased more quickly in younger adults than in older groups. This shift has emerged alongside wider health changes following the Covid pandemic.
Separate NHS data indicates that nearly 1 in 3 people in England is now affected by obesity. Between 2019 and 2025, new obesity cases rose by 16 per cent among those aged 20 to 29. The increase reached almost 20 per cent in those aged 30 to 39.
Type 2 diabetes remains a serious condition. It can lead to complications such as heart attacks and strokes. When the condition develops at a younger age, it tends to progress more aggressively. This increases the risk of severe complications and reduces life expectancy.
Researchers have pointed to emerging treatments such as GLP-1 injections and oral therapies to support weight loss and improve disease management alongside lifestyle changes. The charity also stressed the need for better follow-up care after gestational diabetes during pregnancy, which raises the risk of developing type 2 diabetes later in life.
Diabetes UK has emphasised the importance of early diagnosis. Timely detection can help prevent long-term organ damage. The condition can also enter remission in some cases through healthy eating and weight management without the need for medication.
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