Media Coverage: Dr Dominic Greenyer Highlights Early Skin Sign That Could Indicate Diabetes Risk in Children

With childhood obesity rates continuing to rise across the UK, Dr Dominic Greenyer, GP and Director at The Health Suite, is encouraging parents to be aware of a little-known skin change that may signal an increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes.

A Skin Change Parents Shouldn't Ignore

Dr Greenyer explains that one of the most important warning signs is a condition known as acanthosis nigricans — a darkening and thickening of the skin that commonly appears around the neck, armpits and other skin folds.

“One of the key indicators that your child could be struggling with their weight is a noticeable change in the skin. A darkening and thickening of the skin in the folds of the neck and armpits, known medically as acanthosis nigricans, can be an indicator of insulin resistance in children, a condition closely linked to obesity.”

An Early Warning of Future Health Problems

According to Dr Greenyer, insulin resistance can develop long before diabetes is diagnosed, making early recognition particularly important.

“If left unaddressed, it is a stepping stone towards type two diabetes.”

Because the skin changes can resemble dirt, dry skin or natural pigmentation, many parents may overlook them.

When to Seek Medical Advice

Dr Greenyer stresses that weight gain alone is not always a cause for concern during childhood and adolescence. However, professional assessment may be appropriate when weight gain is accompanied by other indicators, including:

• A BMI consistently above the 91st centile
• Weight gain that is disproportionate to height and development
• A family history of obesity-related conditions such as type 2 diabetes
• Changes to the skin suggestive of insulin resistance

“It can be difficult for parents to discern weight gain in children that is part of a healthy development, and weight gain that requires speaking with a medical professional.”

Importance of Early Assessment

Dr Greenyer emphasises that monitoring trends over time is often more important than focusing on a single measurement.

“The key is whether weight gain is crossing centile lines upwards over time, and whether it is accompanied by unusual signs, such as changes to the skin, that suggest something more is going on beneath the surface.”

Early assessment can help identify underlying health concerns and support children in maintaining long-term metabolic health.

Read the complete article in the Daily Express.