Title Epidemiological trends and seasonal patterns in childhood type 1 diabetes: insights from 2001 to 2024 in Lithuania
Authors Stankutė, Ingrida ; Marčiulionytė, Dalė ; Ostrauskas, Rytas ; Čemerkaitė, Aistė ; Leonavičiūtė, Grytė ; Kemežys, Robertas ; Vainienė, Sigita ; Šmigelskas, Kastytis ; Verkauskienė, Rasa
DOI 10.1155/pedi/9968982
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Is Part of Pediatric diabetes.. Hoboken : Wiley. 2026, vol. 2026, iss. 1, p. [1-6].. ISSN 1399-543X. eISSN 1399-5448
Keywords [eng] children ; epidemiology ; incidence ; seasonal variability ; trends ; type 1 diabetes
Abstract [eng] 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.
Published Hoboken : Wiley
Type Journal article
Language English
Publication date 2026
CC license CC license description