Ask the Diabetes Educator Archive

Q:

I never suspected a sugar problem with my 12 year old daughter. She recently stayed with a relative that is diabetic and my daughter wanted to see what her readings were. Her AM fasting blood sugar was 154; is this cause for concern something that should be professionally checked or is this a normal reading for a 12 year old?

A:

You do need to be concerned about a 154 blood sugar with a 12 year old. Some references will state that ranges are different for children without giving specific numbers. Pediatricians I know regard blood sugar levels in children the same as in adults. Two fasting screens of 126 is considered to be diabetes. With the right food intake and plenty of activity, these numbers can usually be brought down into the normal range. This is challenging with a preteen. You will need to seek guidance and support here from your practitioner.