Hyderabad: Centre orders diabetes tests for children
HYDERABAD: The Union Ministry of Health has decided to conduct diabetes tests among children following a rise in cases across the country. Under the Rashtriya Bal Swasthya Karyakram (RBSK), screening will now be carried out in schools and anganwadi centres.
Mobile teams to screen students in schools, anganwadis
The Centre has issued new guidelines titled RBSK 2.0 for identification and management. Mobile health teams visiting schools will identify children showing symptoms based on the “4Ts” formula. Blood tests will be conducted on the spot using glucometers.
Children with blood sugar levels above 200 mg/dL will be referred to Non-Communicable Disease clinics in district hospitals. Paediatricians will conduct further tests to confirm diagnosis. Children at risk of diabetes (prediabetes) will undergo annual screening, the guidelines state.
Officials from the state health department said similar testing and treatment measures are likely to be implemented soon.
4Ts symptoms flagged for quick identification
Doctors have advised parents and teachers to watch for four key symptoms:
- Frequent urination, including bedwetting
- Excessive thirst
- Fatigue or reduced activity
- Sudden weight loss despite normal eating
If these symptoms are observed, children should undergo immediate testing.
Free insulin and monitoring devices at district hospitals
For children diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes, insulin is essential. District hospitals will provide insulin injections and syringes free of cost every month. Glucometers, test strips and lancets will also be supplied for home monitoring.
Treatment details will be updated on online portals. In case of a sudden drop in blood sugar, the Centre has advised giving honey or glucose tablets. If the condition worsens, children should be shifted to hospital using ambulance services.
Doctors also recommend lifestyle changes, including fibre-rich home-cooked food, avoiding sugary drinks and junk food on school premises, at least 60 minutes of physical activity daily, and 8–11 hours of sleep.
