Re-evaluating higher age as a risk factor for diabetes in the Indian population: the emergence of young-onset type 2 diabetes.

This study re-evaluates the traditional emphasis on higher age as a primary risk factor for diabetes in the Indian population, highlighting the increasing prevalence of Young-Onset Type 2 Diabetes (YOD) among younger individuals. Despite being younger and leaner, Indian individuals present a higher prevalence of insulin resistance and metabolic syndrome, pointing to young-onset of Type 2 Diabetes. Additionally, maternal malnutrition, low birth weight, and rapid weight gain in childhood could be exacerbating this early onset. The Indian Diabetes Risk Score (IDRS), widely used to predict Type 2 Diabetes (T2D) risk, focuses on higher age and may underestimate risk among younger population. The review highlights the need for revising diabetes risk tools and implementing targeted preventive measures to address the rising incidence of Type 2 Diabetes in younger Indian population.