Epidemiological Trends and Seasonal Patterns in Childhood Type 1 Diabetes: Insights From 2001 to 2024 in Lithuania.

IF 1.9 3区医学 Q2 ENDOCRINOLOGY & METABOLISM

Pediatric Diabetes Pub Date : 2026-03-06 eCollection Date: 2026-01-01 DOI:10.1155/pedi/9968982

Ingrida Stankute, Dale Marciulionyte, Rytas Ostrauskas, Aiste Cemerkaite, Gryte Leonaviciute, Robertas Kemezys, Sigita Vainiene, Kastytis Smigelskas, Rasa Verkauskiene

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引用次数: 0

Abstract

Background: Type 1 diabetes (T1D) incidence is rising globally, with significant regional variation. Data from highly homogeneous populations, such as Lithuanian, may contribute to a better understanding of contributing T1D factors. This study examines 24-year trends in childhood T1D incidence and seasonal patterns in Lithuania.

Methods: The annual incidence rates (IRs) were computed utilizing established methodologies per 100,000 children <15 years. The study included 2369 (1181 boys) patients with T1D.

Results: During 2001-2024, the mean IR was 21.4 per 100,000 < 15 years (95% CI: 20.89, 27.28). The incidence rose from 10.8 to 36.4 per 100,000 children under 15 years of age, with notable peaks observed in 2021 and 2022, temporally aligning with the highest COVID-19 infection waves. Subgroup analysis showed the most rapid increase in young teenagers (10-14 years). Most new cases (63.5%) were diagnosed from September to March.

Conclusions: This study demonstrates a rapidly increasing incidence of T1D in Lithuanian children over a 24-year period and is one of the highest in European countries. The seasonal distribution of new cases has been speculated to be due to reduced sunlight exposure and lower vitamin D levels, as well as increased school related stress and viral infections during autumn and winter months. However, additional contributing factors are likely involved, underscoring the need for further research.

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立陶宛儿童1型糖尿病的流行病学趋势和季节性模式：2001年至2024年的见解

背景：1型糖尿病（T1D）的发病率在全球范围内呈上升趋势，且存在显著的区域差异。来自高度同质人群（如立陶宛人）的数据可能有助于更好地了解造成T1D的因素。本研究调查了立陶宛儿童T1D发病率的24年趋势和季节性模式。结果：2001-2024年期间，平均IR为21.4 / 10万。结论：本研究表明立陶宛儿童T1D发病率在24年内迅速增加，是欧洲国家中发病率最高的国家之一。据推测，新病例的季节性分布是由于阳光照射减少和维生素D水平降低，以及秋冬季期间学校相关压力和病毒感染增加。然而，可能还涉及其他因素，因此需要进一步研究。

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来源期刊

Pediatric Diabetes 医学-内分泌学与代谢

CiteScore

6.60

自引率

14.70%

发文量

141

审稿时长

4-8 weeks

期刊介绍： Pediatric Diabetes is a bi-monthly journal devoted to disseminating new knowledge relating to the epidemiology, etiology, pathogenesis, management, complications and prevention of diabetes in childhood and adolescence. The aim of the journal is to become the leading vehicle for international dissemination of research and practice relating to diabetes in youth. Papers are considered for publication based on the rigor of scientific approach, novelty, and importance for understanding mechanisms involved in the epidemiology and etiology of this disease, especially its molecular, biochemical and physiological aspects. Work relating to the clinical presentation, course, management and outcome of diabetes, including its physical and emotional sequelae, is considered. In vitro studies using animal or human tissues, whole animal and clinical studies in humans are also considered. The journal reviews full-length papers, preliminary communications with important new information, clinical reports, and reviews of major topics. Invited editorials, commentaries, and perspectives are a regular feature. The editors, based in the USA, Europe, and Australasia, maintain regular communications to assure rapid turnaround time of submitted manuscripts.