Type 2 diabetes in children and adolescents: an emerging disease.

The incidence of type 2 diabetes is increasing in the United States, and minority populations in particular seem to be affected. In the past, it was thought that type 2 diabetes occurred only in adults. However, an alarming epidemic has emerged, and children as young as 8 years of age are now being diagnosed with the disease. The purpose of this article is to present pediatric nurse practitioners with the most recent information about type 2 diabetes in children and adolescents, summarize current understanding about diagnosis, and outline treatment options.