A new study has revealed that the rate of type 1 and type-2 diabetes have soared in young people between 2001 and 2009. The conclusion was based on data of millions of children, adolescents and teenagers.

The study was conducted at the Colorado School of Public Health and the University of North Carolina. It was found that prevalence of type 1 diabetes burgeoned by 21% between 2001 and 2009. It was claimed by researchers that diabetes has become a serious health risk for young people now. Search for Diabetes in Youth conducted the study, which found that a surge in diabetes cases was recorded in 2009 among children between 10 and 19 years old compared to 2001.

Dr. Barb Zind, a Grand Junction pediatrician, said the rising rates of diabetes are the result of the childhood obesity epidemic and increasing trend of sedentary life style.

"It's really tempting for kids to spend a lot of time playing video games. We used to see kids lose weight over summer. They're outside more. They're not in school. Now, we see kids gaining weight over the summer months", said Dr. Zind.

Dr. Zind suggested parents to keep a watch on their children to figure out how much time they are spending in front of the screen. Liming the screen exposure for children can play a significant role in reducing risks of diabetes in them.

Dr. Dana Dabelea of the Colorado School of Public Health said the increase in diabetes among many young patients will overburden the already under pressure health care system.

It is very important for healthcare systems now to look into the problem and be prepared to take care of these kids. If diabetes goes untreated then the chances of a range of health problems, including nerve damage and glaucoma, also increase.