A new study has found a worrying rise in cases of type 2 diabetes among women in their 20s in England, with researchers linking the trend to increasing obesity levels since the COVID-19 pandemic.
The analysis, conducted by researchers at Imperial College London using NHS data from 2011 to 2024, found that while new diagnoses among older adults have declined slightly, cases are rising rapidly among people under 40, particularly women aged 20 to 29.
According to NHS England estimates, around 12,000 people under the age of 30 are now living with type 2 diabetes, with women accounting for a growing share of these younger cases.
Researchers also found that body mass index (BMI) at the time of diagnosis has increased more quickly among younger adults than older age groups, suggesting worsening obesity is a key driver of the trend.
Lead researcher Dr. Shivani Misra said earlier onset of severe obesity is likely increasing the risk of developing type 2 diabetes at a younger age, describing the findings as “really worrying” because early-onset type 2 diabetes is associated with poorer long-term health outcomes.
She added that although younger people from ethnic minority communities have traditionally been considered at higher risk, the increase is now also being seen in white populations.
Diabetes UK warned that developing type 2 diabetes at a younger age can lead to more aggressive disease progression and increases the risk of serious complications, including heart attacks, strokes and organ damage.
The charity stressed the importance of early diagnosis and healthy lifestyle changes, noting that some people can achieve remission through weight loss and a healthy diet. Researchers also said newer anti-obesity treatments, including GLP-1 medications, may help reduce the risk.
Common symptoms of type 2 diabetes include excessive thirst, frequent urination and persistent tiredness. (Newswire)