Retinopathy happens when there is damage to the retina. The retina is the thin layer of tissue at the back of the eye. It contains small blood vessels and nerve endings for vision. Other diabetes related eye conditions which can happen are cataracts and blurred vision. Regular screening will help to minimise any damage.
Current recommendations for screening for retinopathy
Type 1 diabetes
Type 2 diabetes
The kidneys act as a filter for our bodies, passing waste into the urine which the body removes. Nephropathy refers to kidney damage linked to diabetes. Those most at risk are people who have one of the following:
Regular screening to look for protein in the urine (microalbuminuria) will help to identify any early changes in kidney function, and minimise any damage that this condition may cause. The screening test for nephropathy is a urine sample. Your child will also need regular blood pressure checks.
Current recommendations for screening for nephropathy
Type 1 diabetes
Type 2 diabetes
Neuropathy refers to nerve damage associated with diabetes. Again, those most at risk are people who have blood glucose levels that stay high over a long period of time.
Foot problems, due to decreased blood flow or nerve problems, are unlikely to happen in children or young people. However, feet need to be well cared for to prevent problems in later life. Podiatrists (people who treat foot disorders) can help.
This increases the risk of heart attacks and strokes. People with diabetes have an increased risk of getting vascular disease at an early age.
This increases the risk of heart attacks and strokes. People with diabetes need blood pressure checks at the time of diagnosis and at least once a year.
Cholesterol is a fat substance that is naturally present in blood and cells. High cholesterol increases the risk of heart attacks and strokes.
Current recommendations for lipid screening
Type 1 diabetes
Type 2 diabetes
People with type 1 diabetes have a higher risk of developing other auto-immune conditions. Children need screening blood tests at diagnosis and then every 2 to 5 years.
Children and young people with diabetes are at increased risk of gum disease, tooth decay and infections. Glucose levels which stay high make this more likely. It is important for children and young people to:
Find out more about dental care for children and young people in New Zealand [1].
The content on this page has been produced in collaboration with the National Clinical Network Children and Young People's Diabetes Services.
This page last reviewed 04 September 2023.
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Links
[1] https://www.kidshealth.org.nz/dental-care-your-child
[2] https://www.kidshealth.org.nz/tags/diabetes
[3] https://www.kidshealth.org.nz/node/2097?language=ko
[4] https://www.kidshealth.org.nz/contact?from=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.kidshealth.org.nz%2Fprint%2F1928%3Flanguage%3Dko