Bhubaneswar: Diabetes among children is on the rise in Odisha, health experts said, urging parents to keep tabs on children’s eating habits and encourage them to take part in outdoor activities.“Some 10 years back, I used to see about one diabetic child per month. Now, I see three per week,” said endocrinologist Dr Sunil Kota.According to him, girls are becoming more susceptible to diabetes, besides children with a strong family history of the disease and those who are obese. He attributed the trend to a combination of genetic, lifestyle and environmental factors, warning that certain groups may be more vulnerable to developing insulin resistance and, subsequently, type 2 diabetes.“The number is clearly increasing. Children are getting less sleep compared to previous decades. They need proper sleep time, outdoor activities and a pressure-free environment,” Kota said.Experts have also warned against early onset of Type 2 diabetes among children. Dr Debarchan Jena, assistant professor in the department of endocrinology at SCB Medical College and Hospital, Cuttack, said he has treated Type 2 diabetes in schoolchildren aged above 12 years.“The number is growing gradually. We have seen Type 1 diabetes among children, but the occurrence of Type 2 diabetes in children is a matter of concern,” Jena said.He said parents should help children engage in outdoor activities rather than them spending time on mobile phones or online games. “Obesity is the major reason behind Type 2 diabetes among young people. Schools should increase the time allotted for exercise and outdoor games. Teachers can motivate children in this regard. Junk food should be replaced with a healthy and balanced diet,” Jena said.He said people who develop diabetes early are likely to face more health complications than those diagnosed later in life. “A decade ago, I rarely saw a child with Type 2 diabetes. Now, I get at least two children every day in my OPD,” Jena added.Kota said heightened pollution and exposure to endocrine-disrupting chemicals found in some plastic products may also contribute to the problem. These substances can interfere with the body’s hormonal functions and, along with pollution-related effects, promote inflammation. “Persistent inflammation may increase insulin resistance, raising the risk of Type 2 diabetes,” Kota said.