Children of all ethnic backgrounds are developing diabetes at an alarming rate these days, though research suggests that 'minority' children may be especially at risk.

Because of an upswing in the numbers of overweight minority children, more of them are being diagnosed with adult-type diabetes. It's estimated that at least 40,000 American children now have type 2 diabetes, the type associated with adult obesity. Born genetically programmed to store fat during times of famine, overweight Hispanics, Indians and blacks develop symptoms of diabetes from a regular diet of low-cost, high-calorie fast food and sodas, coupled with little daily physical activity.

This does not seem to have a genetic component, but seems to be more connected to environmental influences. But more and more people, and institutions such as primary schools, are fighting back every day to educate children and protect their health. We must do all we can to prevent grim facts such as these:

Garver said parents should help their children develop healthful eating habits before they get fat. And that includes infants, he said.

"Babies as young as 6 months already know what they like to eat. By the time a child is in early adolescence, eating habits are set and difficult to modify."

Griffin said more frequent visits to the pediatrician during early childhood may help prevent diabetes.

"Pediatricians see the kids when they're teeny tiny, and then they don't come in until they need shots for kindergarten, and then they fall off the face of the planet," he said. "When the kids come to see me, it's kind of too late."