SEARCH for diabetes was a study conducted by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases from 2002 through 2007. The study involved children and teens with diabetes across the U.S. Clinical centers were set up in California, Hawaii, Colorado, Ohio, South Carolina, and Washington. The states invited some 9,000 children under the age of 20 who were living with diabetes to participate in the study. Information obtained through the study is being used to help researchers understand the disease better.


The goals of SEARCH for diabetes in children were to identify the number of children under the age of 20 with diabetes, how type 1 diabetes and diabetes type 2 differ among ages and ethnicities, learn about the complications of diabetes in children, view the different types of treatment these children receive and learn more about the effects of diabetes on their everyday lives. The information is currently being used by those in the health care profession to improve care and treatment of diabetes in children.

Children involved in the study had their blood pressure, weight, height, and waist circumference checked periodically. They also submitted to both blood and urine testing. All tests were conducted free of charge. Researchers were able to talk with each child about their health habits, including diet and exercise.

Findings of the SEARCH for diabetes in children study revealed that some 215,000 children and adolescents under the age of 20 have been diagnosed with the disease. Almost 2 million people aged 20 and older were diagnosed with diabetes in the U.S. in 2010 alone. The results also confirmed that diabetes is the 7th leading cause of death in the U.S.

Diabetes is an epidemic in our country. The cost of living with diabetes was roughly $174 billion in 2010. Medical expenses for diabetics are twice as much as those who do not have diabetes. In order to prevent diabetes in children, parents need to promote and encourage healthier lifestyles. Add fresh fruits and vegetables, lean meats, and low fat items to their diets. Get kids involved in sports they love and join them! It’s a great way to connect with your child and teach them habits that will follow them for the rest of their lives.

Filed under: Living with Diabetes

Like this post? Subscribe to my RSS feed and get loads more!