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Pathogenesis and Prevention of Type 2 Diabetes: Parental Determinants, Breastfeeding, and Early Childhood Nutrition

  • Pediatric Type 2 Diabetes (M Freemark, Section Editor)
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Abstract

Among the factors predisposing to type 2 diabetes in children, adolescents, and young adults, the health and behavior of both the mother and father are critical. Prevention and treatment of parental nutritional disorders (including obesity and malnutrition), promotion of breastfeeding, and avoidance of overfeeding of young children are essential for childhood health and metabolic function. Focusing research and policy on parental influences on childhood health should reduce the risks of obesity and type 2 diabetes in future generations.

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Disclosure

Conflicts of interest: S. Bartz: has received a grant from Genentech Fellowship; M. Freemark: none.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Division of Pediatric Endocrinology and Diabetes, Duke University Medical Center, Box 102820, Durham, NC, 27710, USA

    Sarah Bartz & Michael Freemark

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  1. Sarah Bartz
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  2. Michael Freemark
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Correspondence to Michael Freemark.

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Bartz, S., Freemark, M. Pathogenesis and Prevention of Type 2 Diabetes: Parental Determinants, Breastfeeding, and Early Childhood Nutrition. Curr Diab Rep 12, 82–87 (2012). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11892-011-0246-3

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s11892-011-0246-3

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