Researchers at Imperial College London have identified a notable rise in type 2 diabetes cases among young women in England, particularly those in their 20s, according to an analysis of NHS data spanning 2011 to 2024. The trend has accelerated significantly since the Covid pandemic and correlates with increasing obesity rates across the population.
Type 2 diabetes poses serious health risks when diagnosed in younger individuals, as the disease tends to progress more aggressively at earlier ages, potentially leading to severe complications such as heart attacks and strokes. Early diagnosis is critical to prevent long-term organ damage. Currently, an estimated 12,000 people under age 30 are living with type 2 diabetes in England, with women representing a growing proportion of these younger cases. While older adults continue to account for the largest share of new diabetes diagnoses, incidence is climbing sharply in those under 40, with some of the most pronounced increases observed in women aged 20 to 29.
Researchers analyzed data from the English National Diabetes Audit and found that body mass index at diagnosis has been rising more rapidly among younger adults than older age groups, suggesting obesity as a primary driver. Between 2019 and 2025, new obesity cases increased by 16% in people aged 20-29 and nearly 20% in those aged 30-39, while declining in adults aged 60-79. Lead researcher Dr. Shivani Misra noted that earlier-onset severe obesity in young people is elevating their type 2 diabetes risk and lowering the age of diagnosis.
The trend extends across demographic groups, not limited to traditionally high-risk populations. Diabetes UK emphasizes improved follow-up care for women diagnosed with gestational diabetes during pregnancy, as this condition increases type 2 diabetes risk postpartum. Management options include dietary changes and weight maintenance, with newer treatments such as GLP-1 medications showing potential alongside lifestyle modifications.
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