Pediatric mature onset diabetes of the young (MODY)

What is pediatric mature onset diabetes of the young (MODY)?

• When a child has Type 1 diabetes, their pancreas cannot make enough insulin (hormone that regulates glucose in the blood).

• When a child develops type 2 diabetes, their body makes enough insulin, but it is ineffective because they become insulin resistant.

• MODY is most like Type 1 diabetes, however, it can have similarities to both Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes. MODY makes it difficult for your child’s body to regulate insulin. Just like type 1 and type 2 diabetes, MODY can also cause multiple complications, including blindness, kidney problems and an increased risk of cardiovascular (heart) disease.

Risk factors

Your child is at risk of inheriting the genetic defect and developing MODY if one parent carries the gene mutation. Most children who inherit the genetic defect develop MODY as an adolescent (12-17 years of age) or young adult.

If your child is obese, they are more likely to develop symptoms of MODY sooner than a child of normal weight.

What are the signs and symptoms of pediatric mature onset diabetes of the young (MODY)?

Symptoms related to MODY may develop gradually and can include:

• Blurry vision

• Excessive thirst

• Frequent urination

• High blood sugar

• Skin infections

• Yeast infections 

• Unexplained weight loss

What are the causes of pediatric mature onset diabetes of the young (MODY)?

MODY is caused by the mutation (permanent change) of a single gene.