A new analysis of NHS data has found a worrying increase in type 2 diabetes among young adults in England, particularly women in their 20s. Researchers at Imperial College London analysed data from the English National Diabetes Audit between 2011 and 2024 and found that, while diagnoses have fallen slightly among older adults, rates have risen rapidly in people under 40. Around 12,000 people under the age of 30 are now living with type 2 diabetes, with women accounting for a growing proportion of these younger cases.
Researchers believe the trend is closely linked to rising obesity levels, which have increased significantly since the COVID-19 pandemic. Between 2019 and 2025, new obesity cases rose by 16% among people aged 20–29 and by almost 20% in those aged 30–39.
Early-onset type 2 diabetes is associated with a greater risk of serious complications, including heart attacks, strokes and long-term organ damage, making early diagnosis and effective weight management especially important. The findings also suggest the increase is now being seen across a broader range of the population, highlighting the need for stronger prevention strategies, improved follow-up care for those at higher risk, and wider access to support for maintaining a healthy weight.
Read the article: More women in their 20s are getting type 2 diabetes – BBC News