Screening for related conditions to diabetes (comorbidity)

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An overview of conditions related to diabetes and how how often your child will need to be screened for each condition.

Key points

  • Your child will be screened for conditions that occur in addition to either type 1 or type 2 diabetes. These conditions are not caused by diabetes but are more common in people who have it.

​​Related conditions are conditions that may occur in addition to diabetes. Comorbid conditions may affect the diabetes however they neither cause diabetes nor are caused by diabetes. Type 1 diabetes is more often associated with autoimmune conditions. Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) are more common in people with type 2 diabetes.

Screening for type 1 diabetes related conditions

Thyroid diseases

Screen test: Blood test

How often? Screen at diagnosis of diabetes and every 2 years after, or every 6-12 months if anti-thyroid antibodies are detected

Celiac disease

Screen test Blood test

How often? Screen with any signs of stomach upset, poor growth, poor weight gain, fatigue, poor blood sugar control

Addison's disease

Screen test Blood test

How often? Screen with any symptoms of unexplained recurring low blood glucose (sugar) levels and decreasing insulin needs

Screening for type 2 diabetes related conditions

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)

Screen test History and physical exam to check for irregular or absent menstruation, excess hair growth and acne

How often? Screening once a year starting at diagnosis in girls who have started puberty

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD)

Screen test Blood test

How often? Yearly screening starting at diagnosis

Last updated: November 20th 2017