Medical experts have expressed growing concern over the sharp rise in Type-2 diabetes among young people in Bangladesh, blaming unhealthy lifestyles, excessive screen use, poor sleep patterns and unhealthy eating habits for the worsening situation.
Doctors say diabetes, once considered mainly a disease affecting older adults, is now increasingly being diagnosed among people in their 20s and 30s due to rapid lifestyle changes linked to urban living and growing digital dependence.
According to Dr Abu Nasir Mohith, deputy chief medical officer at BIRDEM General Hospital, many young people are spending long hours sitting in front of laptops and mobile phones while avoiding physical activities and sports.
He said excessive consumption of fast food, sugary drinks and processed foods, combined with sedentary habits, is significantly increasing obesity and metabolic disorders among youths.
Dr Abu Nasir Mohith also identified late-night mobile phone use and sleep deprivation as major contributors to diabetes.
He explained that insufficient sleep raises cortisol levels, which can interfere with blood sugar regulation and gradually lead to insulin resistance.
Health specialists warned that many young people remain unaware of pre-diabetes because the condition often develops silently without noticeable symptoms.
They advised people to monitor warning signs such as unusual fatigue, excessive thirst, frequent urination, blurred vision and sudden weight changes.
Diabetes specialist Dr Shankar Barua said uncontrolled diabetes can damage multiple organs, including the heart, kidneys, nerves, liver and eyes.
He noted that complications can become more severe for younger patients because the disease affects them over a longer period of life.
Doctors also highlighted the dangers of hypoglycemia, or dangerously low blood sugar, describing it as a medical emergency requiring immediate treatment.
To reduce diabetes risks, physicians recommended maintaining a disciplined lifestyle through healthy eating, regular exercise, proper sleep and stress management.
Experts suggested reducing intake of sugar and refined carbohydrates while increasing consumption of vegetables, whole grains and fibre-rich foods. They also recommended at least 30 to 40 minutes of physical activity daily.
Medical professionals believe greater public awareness, early screening and sustained lifestyle changes are essential to prevent further growth of diabetes among Bangladesh’s younger population.
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