Prediabetes Risk in New Zealand Children: New Study Uncovers Alarming Trends

Strategic Insights -

A study conducted at Massey University has revealed disturbing statistics regarding the prevalence of prediabetes among children in New Zealand. The research aimed to identify the risk factors associated with prediabetes in children aged 11-13, outside of an organized screening program. The findings suggest that a significant proportion of children in New Zealand are at risk of developing prediabetes, with obesity, overcrowded homes, and deprived areas being significant risk factors. The study's authors recommend early screening and better resourcing for promoting healthy nutrition as preventative measures.

Key Takeaways:

  • The study found that 35% of children in New Zealand were at risk of developing prediabetes.
  • Significant differences in prediabetes risk were observed among Pacific, Maori, and non-Maori non-Pacific children, with those who were obese, lived in overcrowded homes, and in deprived areas being more likely to be at risk.
  • Two distinct dietary patterns were identified among children in the study: a diverse diet high in sweet and savoury snacks, takeaway foods, and sugary drinks, and a predominantly vegetarian diet rich in legumes.
  • The study recommends early screening and better resourcing for promoting healthy nutrition as preventative measures to reduce the risk of prediabetes among children in New Zealand.
  • The authors of the study include Ridvan Tupai-Firestone, Soo Cheng, Marine Corbin, Ngaire Lerwill, Tupou Pulu, Layla Latu, Hamish Dunn, Veisinia Pulu, Justice Firestone, Kathryn Fuge, Sera Tapu-Ta'ala, Prachee Gokhale, Anna Matheson, Deborah Read, Barry Borman, Akarere Henry, Jeremy Krebs, Raynald Samoa, Te Kani Kingi, and Nia Aitaoto.

Statistics:

  • 35% of children in the study were at risk of developing prediabetes.
  • 276 participants were included in the study.
  • Significant differences in prediabetes risk were observed among Pacific, Maori, and non-Maori non-Pacific children.
  • Obesity (BMI 95th percentile) was a significant risk factor for prediabetes among children in the study.
  • Overcrowded homes and deprived areas were also significant risk factors for prediabetes among children in the study.

Sources:

  • A feasibility study investigating the risk of prediabetes among children in New Zealand (Scientific Reports, 2025, 15(1):1-11).
  • Massey University, Centre for Public Health Research (led by Ridvan Tupai-Firestone).
  • NewsRx. New Pediatrics Research Has Been Reported by Researchers at Massey University (A feasibility study investigating the risk of prediabetes among children in New Zealand). Obesity & Diabetes Week. September 15, 2025; p 137.