Prevention and early detection of type 2 diabetes in children and adolescents.

Type 2 ("adult-onset") diabetes in young adults and children has become increasingly common over the last 10 years, and has been described as an "emerging epidemic." The financial and societal ramifications of such a development are substantial and demand a prompt and aggressive public health response. Emphasis must be placed upon preventive behaviors and early detection, and creation of new public policy to address the related societal issues. Recommendations for prevention and screening of high-risk children and adolescents are provided.